World Cup: Holland Take Group B With 2-0 Win Over Chile

After demolishing the Spanish defense in their first group game, and winning a shootout with the Socceroos in their second, the Dutch took all 9 points, beating Chile 2-0.

It was the magic touch of Louis Van Gaal today, as the substitutes came up big, scoring both goals. However, the game looked like it had a 0-0 draw written all over it for much of the match. In a first half that was rather boring if we’re honest, the Dutch looked to be playing more defensive, with 10 behind the ball at times. Chile did not have their first chance until 23 minutes in; a Felipe Gutierrez header that flew over the bar.

Arjen Robben nearly gave the Netherlands an advantage going into halftime, but had his shot drag wide of goal. Which means the teams went into the half tied at 0.

The second half was much of the same, Chile keeping nearly 70 percent of the possession as Holland, without Robin van Persie due to yellow card suspension, kept defensive shape. The Chileans could not find a way through the Dutch defense, it was just simply frustrating for them today. Van Gaal brought on Memphis Depay in the 69th minute, and then Leroy Fer in the 75th minute. These substitutes would prove to be the edge in the match. Fer scored just 90 seconds onto the pitch on an outstanding leaping header on Daryl Janmaat’s cross into the area to give Holland a 1-0 lead.

Chile pushed for an equalizer in the final 13 minutes, and had a possible argument for a handball in the penalty area when the ball struck the arm of DeVrij, but the referee disagreed. The Dutch sprung forward on a counter in the 92nd minute, led by thepacyArjenRobben. He found himself behind theChile defense and played a perfect ball to MemphisDepay who scored easily, securing the win for theOranje. 

The Dutch win group B with 9 points, while Chile finish second on 6 points. Holland go on to face Mexico in the World Cup round of 16 on Sunday (12 pm ET on ESPN), in what could be a great matchup with El Tri. Chile will face Brazil on Saturday (12 pm ET on ABC) in a game that will be extremely tough for both sides.