Saturday, June 19, 2010

WORLD CUP Netherlands vs Japan

Netherlands and Japan failed to impress in the first half, resulting in a 0-0 score at half-time in both side's second match of the group phase. Oranje then broke the deadlock after the break and Japan were unable to restore parity in the remainder of the game.

The Dutch have now collected six points from two games and are sitting in pole position to qualify for the next round. Japan have three points from two matches and need a result in their final match if they are to survive the group stage.

Oranje started the match the better side of the two and got their first chance of the match after eight minutes of play. The referee had no choice but to award the Dutch a free kick in a dangerous position after a foul on Robin van Persie. Wesley Sneijder stepped up to take it, but his shot sailed over the bar. Dirk Kuyt then tried his luck with an acrobatic bicycle kick after a cross from the left, but his shot was blocked by the Japanese defence before being cleared into safety.

The Asians then made a foray into Dutch territory in the 15th minute. Defender Yuji Nakazawa created some space down the left and tried his luck from 25 yards, only to see his shot bounce wide at the far post.

The Dutch did open the score after 53 minutes of play though. The Japanese defence failed to clear the ball and Sneijder fired home the loose ball from the edge of the area. Oranje failed to break through Japan's defense but Sneijder made a goal after the break.


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