In a thrilling Group B encounter, goals from Arjen Robben, Robin van Persie and Memphis Depay were enough to see off a spirited Australian side, who will bow out of the World Cup.
The game started in an even enough fashion, with both sides struggling to create chances. It took 15 minutes for the first attempt to arrive, and when it did, Mark Bresciano's attempt was blocked down. However, in the 19th minute, an excellent solo goal from Robben brought the game to life, and what a game it turned out to be.
Robben picked up the ball about 25 metres out, ran at and beat his opponent before sliding the ball into Matt Ryan's bottom right hand corner. Wild celebrations from the Dutch fans, however, were soon muted by a stunning Tim Cahill effort just 13 seconds after the game resumed.
After an excellent crossfield ball, Cahill hit a first time volley from 20 yards out which crashed off the underside of Cillessen's crossbar and in to level affairs. From then to half time, Australia dominated affairs, but could not take advantage of chances for Bresciano and Tommy Oar. Just before the break, Dutch centre back Bruno Martins Indi suffered an ankle injury, and was replaced by Depay.
10 minutes after the break, Australia finally got their break. A handball from Janmaat granted Mile Jedinak a chance from the penalty spot, and the Crystal Palace midfielder made no mistake from the spot, sending the Aussies into ecstasy. However, the ecstasy quickly subsided to agony - just 4 minutes later in fact.
Van Persie was played through after a defense splitting pass, and he smashed the ball into the top of the net past a hapless Ryan, and the Netherlands were level. At this point, the Oranje assumed control, and 9 minutes later were back in the lead.
Substitute Depay released a long shot from around 25 yards, which Ryan failed to deal with, and was beaten. From there, a high amount of Aussie pressure was to no avail, and Netherlands secured their first victory over the Oceanic side in their history.
The win sees Netherlands through to the next round, while Australia will bow out with a clash against Spain.
