It was a super match. Netherlands triumphed over Brazil 2-1 in the first match of the World Cup 2010 Quarterfinals . Did overconfidence cost Brazil the game? Nah... I concur with Johan Cruyff, Dutch World Cup player from the '70s who said Brazil's playing style is getting old.
Although the first half saw Brazil dominating, it was Netherlands who put in the first goal through Wesley Sneijder's fantastic long shot from outside the box . As the excitement increased after an equalizer by Robinho for Brazil in the second half, so did the tempo of the game. The Dutch began to show their prowess, particularly through speed and Sneijder scored again - this time the ball lightly grazed the top of Brazilian defender Felipe Melo's head before landing in the net. Again, there was no dazzling display by any one player; Kaka failed to shine.
It is becoming apparent that between talent, skill and speed, it is SPEED which is paramount for field games like soccer, hockey and rugby.
The Dutch deserved the win. Brazil lost the opportunity to the Finals but the real losers are all the PUNTERS who had banked on favourites Brazil !!
