Threats neutralized in close Argentina-Dutch encounter
After Brazil collapsed under pressure, their defense falling apart in a remarkable 7-1 loss to a sparkling Germany, the Netherlands and Argentina cancelled each other out in a tactical encounter that the South Americans won but only after penalties.
The match will go down in the record books as the first World Cup semi-final to finish goalless after extra time.
Mistakes, bad defending and clinical finishing clearly make for great entertainment while organisation, discipline and well-executed containing tactics are less appreciated by the neutral.
But while the qualities on display at the Corinthians arena did not thrill, they were qualities nonetheless with some outstanding defensive work from both sides.
Javier Mascherano in the center of midfield and Pablo Zabaleta at right-back were excellent for Argentina, while Ron Vlaar, who will be remembered for missing the first penalty for the Dutch, was a rock at the back.
It was a pity, however, that both teams were missing the same ingredient - a creative midfielder who could open up the game.......Read More
