The third game at the World Cup Friday was a rematch for the ages. The 2010 champion Spain met with runner-ups the Netherlands and what was initially a good match up quickly turned into a 5-1 massacre.
Scoring Onslaught Does In Defending Champions
“In his life, he has done amazing things,” Kuyt said of van Persie. “But to score this goal for his country was very special. It was an amazing pass and an even better finish. It’s a great start to the tournament, two goals against the world champion. It is amazing for him and it is amazing for the team. Hopefully, this is the start of a great tournament.”
It was a result as surprising as it was emphatic. Few could have predicted such a lopsided win for the 2010 runners-up
Is Netherlands defeat the end of Spain reign?
Walking alone with slumped shoulders, a bowed head and weary eyes, Xavi exited Arena Fonte Nova wearing the look of a man who knew exactly how profound Friday's 5-1 defeat by Netherlands could prove.
None of the assembled journalists even attempted to pose a question; there was no point.