World Cup Semi-Final #1

Uruguay 2-3 Netherlands

Not the classic the scoreline might suggest with the Dutch putting in another workman-like performance and neither side creating a hell of a lot.

The first goal was certainly worthy of praise. After some sharp interplay the ball came to Van Bronkhorst on the left, a good 30 yards from goal and his left-footed rocket found the opposite corner of the net. Holland then got sloppy, unwilling to gamble their lead and forfeited possession to Uruguay. A rash tackle lead to Forlan's equaliser from the resulting free-kick just before half-time.

The South Americans struggled to get to grips with their new 4-4-2 formation (having l.ost Suarez to suspension) and failed to impose themselves on the Dutch. Robben and Sneijder always looked the most likely to create something and 2 goals in 3 minutes from the pair was enough to sink the hopes of Uruguay.

There was the chance of a late twist as a rehearsed free kick lead to a second goal for Uruguay in the dying minutes but Holland saw out the aerial bombardment towards Abreu to seal a place in the final.