Never Stop Attacking With Style
The Dutch would have to play an outstanding game against France to top their first game against Italy. A game of that caliber would require skill, resilience and a little luck. I’d say, they had each of those characteristics and more. They continued to play their game of open and attacking football with style. It was the beautiful game at its best.
Dirk Kuyt opened the scoring in the first half. France poured on the pressure for the remainder of the half. Through a bit of luck, the Netherlands made it halftime with a 1-0 advantage.
The key to the game was counterattacks. Marco van Basten did not allow his team to sit back and defend a 1-0 lead. The Oranje way to elevate pressure? Bring on attacking players and score more goals. To start the second half, he brought off Kuyt for Arjen Robben. This tactic almost proved costly. France’s Henry should have leveled the game near the 55th minute. Shortly after Henry’s miss, Robben scored the game’s second goal. The second substitute, Robin van Persie, quickly followed with another goal. But they weren’t done at 3-1. In the closing minutes, Wesley Sneijder controlled the ball at the top of France’s 18 yard line. He calmly turned and riffled the ball into the upper 90 off the crossbar. Amazing. It was a dagger shot.
I only hope and pray Oranje can keep up this level. Its unbelievable. Right now, they are best team on the planet. I feel privileged to watch these games.
The Netherlands Starting Lineup
The Netherlands Fans Proudly Wearing Orange
Wesley Sneijder Scores A Wonder Goal
All images courtesy of UEFA
