The Netherlands on Wednesday overcame a hard- fighting Australia team to record their second victory at the ongoing FIFA World Cup in Brazil. The victory mean that Netherland lead the group with 6 points and could qualify for the second round should Spain fail to beat Chile in the other Group B match.
Australia knew a defeat means they would be out of the tournament. They started brightly, played with purpose and determination as they took the game to the much fancied Netherlands. The Orange boys struggled to string passes together in the opening exchanges but Arjen Robben broke the deadlock in the 20st minute with a solo effort typical of him.
The orange boys and their supporters had barely finished celebrating the opener when Tim Cahil brought Australia level in the 21st minute with a sumptuous volley that would definitely be in contention for goal of the tournament.
It was one of the most exciting opening 45 minutes of the tournament so far as both teams trade waves of attacks but could not extend the scoreline.
Australia started the second half like the first, and were awarded a deserved penalty in the 54th minute. Captain of the team, Mile Jedinak stepped up and gave his team the lead. Netherland surged forward and eventually equalized in the 58th minute when Robin van Persie beat the off-side trap to smash home from twelve yards.
Australia missed a golden opportunity to regain the lead and the Netherlands scored from the resulting breakaway in the 68th minute through a well taken shot by Memphis Depay. Australia pushed for the equalizer but the Dutch held on for their victory.
