Netherlands vs Sweden: Malen shifts to the wing as Koeman names Brobbey as striker

Neil El Aynaoui delivered another strong performance for Morocco following an impressive display against Brazil, helping his country to victory. El Aynaoui demonstrated leadership qualities and influential play, while also helping to neutralize Scotland midfielder McTominay during the match. The performance underscores his growing importance to the Moroccan national team setup. For Roma, the display represents continued positive form from the midfielder on the international stage, building momentum as he balances club and country commitments.

Morocco defeated Scotland 1–0 in World Cup Group C action, with a goal from Saibari early in the match. The Moroccan side climbed to the top of the group with 4 points after two matches, level with Brazil, who won 3–0 against Haiti. AS Roma midfielder El Aynaoui played the full 90 minutes alongside Bouaddi in Morocco's midfield, delivering another strong performance marked by defensive recoveries and shots from distance. During the first half, El Aynaoui was involved in a collision with McTominay at the 36-minute mark; he suffered a mouth injury that caused bleeding but continued playing. Turkey's World Cup campaign ended after a second consecutive defeat. The Turkish side lost 1–0 to Paraguay, with Galarza scoring after just two minutes. This loss followed Turkey's opening 2–0 defeat to Australia. Roma's Çelik remained on the bench during the Paraguay match. Turkey's squad was guided by former Roma manager Montella. The knockout blow came in the second half when Paraguay played with 10 men following Almiron's red card in first-half stoppage time; the dismissal followed a VAR review of an incident involving Muldur. With two losses from two matches, Turkey was mathematically eliminated from the 2026 World Cup.

Manu Koné, AS Roma's midfielder, remained unused on the bench throughout France's 3–1 victory over Senegal in a World Cup 2026 qualifier. Coach Deschamps opted to start Tchouaméni and Rabiot in midfield, making only attacking substitutions in the second half with Barcola and Cherki entering the pitch. France secured the win through a double from Mbappé and a goal from Barcola following his introduction, while Senegal's Mbaye scored a late consolation. Koné's absence marks a delayed debut for the Roma player at the tournament. He may see increased playing time in France's upcoming fixture against Iraq on Monday, June 22. The midfielder's potential involvement in future matches remains to be clarified as France progresses through their World Cup campaign.

AS Roma winger Donyell Malen is set to play a leading role for the Netherlands in their World Cup match against Sweden. The tournament has reached a critical phase, and Malen faces an important opportunity to make an impact in attack after a positive opening performance. The extent of his involvement and match details remain unclear from the available information.

Five AS Roma players will feature for their respective nations during Saturday's second round of the World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Midfielder Manu Koné remains the sole Roma player absent from Saturday's fixtures, as France is not scheduled until Monday 22 June against Iraq. Koné came off the bench in France's opening 3–1 victory over Senegal. The Roma contingent's Saturday schedule opens at midnight with Scotland versus Morocco at Foxborough, featuring Morocco's El Aynaoui and Bouaddi — both expected to start. Morocco drew 1–1 with Brazil in their opener, while Scotland won 1–0 against Haiti. Brazil, without Wesley, faces Haiti at 2:30 a.m. Defender Ndicka watched from the bench in Côte d'Ivoire's opening match and is expected to feature against Germany at Toronto Stadium. Türkiye's Çelik, who started their surprise 2–0 loss to Australia, plays Paraguay at 5 a.m. after Paraguay suffered a 4–1 defeat to the USA. Forward Donyell Malen headlines Roma's evening fixtures alongside Ndicka. Malen, who has not yet scored for the Netherlands, will compete for a starting spot against Sweden in Houston, though Depay is also in contention. The Netherlands drew 2–2 with Japan in their opening match.

Donyell Malen has discussed his approach to professionalism, emphasizing the importance of discipline and a strict lifestyle. The forward has enjoyed a prominent role in Roma's second half of the season, and appears to credit his consistent regimen as central to his performance on the pitch. Malen stated: "Without discipline you don't go anywhere. I follow a rigorous lifestyle." His remarks highlight the mentality he has brought to the club, underscoring his commitment to maintaining the standards required to compete at the highest level.