Dutch master Brazil to reach World Cup semifinals

Samenleving
vrijdag, 02 juli 2010 om 00:00
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The Netherlands came from behind to upset mighty Brazil 2-1 and become the first team into the World Cup semifinals, setting up a meeting with Uruguay or Ghana, who meet later on Friday. Article continues below Dutch playmaker Wesley Sneijder was involved in both second-half goals in Port Elizabeth after Robinho had scored for Brazil in the 10th minute. Brazil thrilled in the first half, completely dominating the Dutch, but crumbled when Sneijder's cross in the 53rd minute was deflected into his own net by Brazil midfielder Felipe Melo. Sneijder then headed in the winner in the 68th from near the penalty spot after Dirk Kuyt flicked the ball on from a corner. Felipe Melo was shown a direct red card in the 73rd for stamping on Netherlands winger Arjen Robben, who tormented the Brazilian defense. "We didn't expect this," Brazil coach Dunga said. "We know that any World Cup match is about 90 minutes. In the first half we were able to play better, and we weren't able to maintain that rhythm in the second half." The Netherlands, which extended its unbeaten streak to 24 games since losing to Australia in September 2008, will play either Uruguay or Ghana on Tuesday in Cape Town on Tuesday. Ghana is seeking to become the first African team to reach a World Cup semifinal.
Bron(nen): Newser/AP