Netherlands vs. Chile, 2014 World Cup: Oranje clinch group win

The game got off to a slow start, in what was more of a tight tactical battle than the high-tempo thriller we were expecting before kickoff. The Netherlands had clearly set out to stifle Chile first and foremost, and could frequently be seen in a flat defensive five. Louis van Gaal’s plan wasn’t pretty, though it certainly succeeded from open play. La Roja only really threatened through set-pieces in the opening half.

When they did come, the on-form attacker Arjen Robben was invariably involved. With 10 minutes of the half remaining he delivered a lethal free-kick into the penalty area for Stefan de Vrij, though the centre back nodded wide. Five minutes later, Robben charged straight towards the Chile goal from the halfway line, only to scuff his shot narrowly wide of the far post.