DOHA: Netherlands became the first country into the World Cup quarter-finals as they beat the United States 3-1 at the match today.The United States were always facing an uphill battle at the World Cup against the No. 8-ranked Netherlands in the Round of 16, but it felt like they had a chance to see their way through to their second-ever quarterfinal berth. Instead, they fell short, defeated 3-1 on goals from Memphis Depay, Daley Blind, and Denzel Dumfries.
The finishing in front of goal made the difference, while the Dutch capitalized on their three best chances, and the United States missed a myriad of good opportunities. It started early, as Pulisic saw a massive opportunity go begging in just the third minute, saved by Andries.
Louis van Gaal’s Dutch side grabbed the lead with their first attack when a slick move ended with Dumfries cutting a perfect pass back for Barcelona forward Depay to stroke home. Dumfries then played a carbon copy ball for Blind to make it 2-0 and put his side in cruise control. Wright bundled home from a Christian Pulisic cross but Dumfries crowned a great display to finish off the Americans.
The Netherlands move on to the quarterfinals, where they will face either Argentina or Australia, while the United States remain with just one quarterfinal appearance at a World Cup in their history.
Team:
USA: Turner, Dest, Zimmerman,. Ream, Robinson, McKennie, Adams,Musah, Weah, Ferreira, Pulisic.
Netherlands: Noppert, Timber, Van Dijk,Dumfries, De Roo, . Klaassen, De Jong, Gakpo, Depay – (source: sportingnews/eveningstandard)
