World Cup: Netherlands Defeats Chile, Both Move On From Group B

In a match to decide the winner of World Cup Group B and the decider of who would face the hosts Brazil in the second round, Netherlands triumphed over Chile courtesy of two goals from second half substitutes. The match was what could be described as a “slow burner” that took some time to build up momentum but it was never a very exciting match. Both teams seemed content to play a cagey match and neither side was willing to really expose themselves for much of the match even though Chile needed to win to top the group.

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The first half was controlled in posession by Chile but it was Arjen Robben and Stefan de Vrij who threatened with the best chances for the Dutch. The Dutch finally found the breakthrough they were looking for but did not need in the 77th minute. Memphis Depay had a shot on goal deflected over the goal for a corner and Netherlands found their goal through a setpiece. Daryl Janmaat crossed for Norwich City’s Leroy Fer who was unmarked in the box and headed his first ever international goal in to the back of the net.

The next Netherlands goal came in stoppage time from a blazing counter attack led by star man Arjen Robben. The Bayern Munich winger broke out and streaked towards the Chile goal. He was forced wide by the Chilean defender and crossed the ball across the face of goal and found Depay who scored with a simple sliding finish.

The final whistle blew shortly after and the Dutch finished the group with nine points in three games and Chile must deal with the prospect of possibly facing Brazil in the next round. Both sides are impressive going forward but are somewhat lacking in defense especially Chile who are the shortest team in the World Cup and must deal with that weakness if they are to advance any further.

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