FONTE NOVA: Netherlands beat the defending champions Spain by 5-1 in the first match of group stages. This is the first time that finalist of the preceding World Cup event faced each other in their opening match of group stages. Winner of the 2010 World Cup Spain started their World Cup Campaign in Brazil in deemed re-match of the 2010 World Cup final. Here like the last event, Spain considered as one of the favorite for the title but Netherlands trampled their favorites’ expectation.
In the first half of the match Spain proved their entry as adorable team. Xabi Alonso scored the first and the only goal on penalty shoot in 27th minute of the match for Spain. Defending champions maintained their lead till 44th minute. Outstanding header by Robin van Persie’s ended up first half on 1-1.
In the second half, Dutch team became nightmare for world champions and scored consecutive goals. Midfielder Arjen Robben’s strike in 53rd minute of the match, took lead of 2-1. Stefan de Vrij opened his account with third goal for Netherlands. Experienced van persie scored his second and took Netherlands in a comfortable position. Rebben, before 10 minutes of full-time, scored his second and secured 5-1 victory over defending champions.
It is one of the worst defeats for Spain in football and disappointed their fans in the stadium and at home. Next Meetings: Both, Spain and Netherlands will face Chile and Australia respectively, on 18 July, 2014.
By Abdullah Waheed