Van Persie becomes all-time top Dutch scorer after 8-1 win

A hat trick from van Persie earned the striker the status as the Netherlands' all-time leading scorer as the already-through Dutch hammered Hungary 8-1 in their World Cup qualifier in Amsterdam on Friday. 

(REUTERS) - A hat trick from Robin van Persie earned the striker the status as the Netherlands' all-time leading scorer as the already-through Dutch hammered Hungary 8-1 in their World Cup qualifier in Amsterdam on Friday.

Van Persie took his tally to 41 goals from 80 appearances, passing Patrick Kluivert's record on a night of clinical efficiency from the Dutch, who were already qualified for next year's finals in Brazil and racked up their eighth win of the campaign.

Van Persie opened the scoring with a 15th minute header and equalled the record soon after as the Dutch dominated and went into half-time 4-0 ahead.

Kevin Strootman and Jeremain Lens profited from defensive errors to also score before the break with Van Persie breaking the record with his third in the 52nd minute, before being taken off to an standing ovation from the Amsterdam Arena fans.