Two of the tournament's favourites took to the stage today in different matches. The Netherlands- a favourite that has never lifted the cup- trade hostilities with Slovakia, a debutante at the world cup, while Brazil- 5 time champions- did battle with their south american brothers from Chile.
The Slovaks were probably hoping that their miraculous win against the 2006 champions, Italy, would be re-enacted against Holland. At least the win must have served as a confidence- booster. But against the super dutch team, they had not a prayer. Arjen Robben showed why he is considered one of the deadliest goal poachers in the world by giving the Netherlands their first goal from about 25 yards out in the 18th minute of the match. It was his first start in the tournament. He definitely has a knack for scoring in the 18th minute as he did exactly the same win in Holland's win against Serbia and Montenegro, 4 years ago. Wesley Sneijder also proved his worth by beautifully stroking in a cut-back from Dirk Kuyt. The Slovaks got a consolation goal via a penalty. The game ended 2-1 and the Netherlands proceed to the Q-finals. The Slovaks proceed home. Not a bad showing at all for the first timers.The match was staged in Durban by the way.
Brazil showed the world why they were still one of the best teams, if not the BEST team in the world. Juan got them their first goal via a header from a corner kick by Maicon Douglas of Inter Milan. Loius Fabiano clinched the second goal by smartly dribbling past the Chilean goalkeeper and slotting the boal sweetly into the net. Robinho found the back of the net for Brazil's 3rd goal.The game ended 3-0 and Chile go home with the approval of plaudits for playing delicious attacking football. The way many fill football should be played.
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