Australia continues to win respect at the World Cup after threatening to pull off a major upset against the Netherlands before losing 3-2 in Porto Alegre on Wednesday.
Fresh from thumping defending World Cup champion Spain 5-1 in their first Group B match, the Dutch weren’t expected to have any trouble against the Socceroos. The match appeared to be going to script when Holland took the lead in the 20th minute after Ajren Robben punished a turnover on halfway to slot his third goal in two games.
But the contest was turned on its head a minute later when Tim Cahill scored a contender for goal of the tournament. Known for using his head to find the net, Cahill nailed a superb volley with his left foot after pin-point delivery from Alex McGowan. Full of confidence, the Socceroos continued to press for the rest of the half but couldn’t add to their tally.
The Netherlands had fewer opportunities and looked in danger of suffering a shock defeat when they went 2-1 down in the 54th minute. A handball in the box gifted Australia a penalty and captain Mile Jedinak was good enough to convert, The Socceroos had a golden chance to go 3-1 up only minutes later when the Dutch turned over the ball in defence, but winger Tommy Oar opted to cross instead of shoot, with Matthew Leckie’s chested effort saved by Jasper Cillessen.
Australia was made to rue the missed opportunity when Manchester United striker Robin van Persie blasted a shot past Socceroos keeper Mat Ryan soon after. The Dutch went further in front through Memphis Depay’s long-range effort and were able to repel Australia’s late raids to all but book their spot in the round of 16.
While disappointed to lose the game, Socceroos coach Ange Postecoglou couldn’t fault his players’ efforts.
“I still think people look at us and sort of predict the kind of way we’re going to play, but we’ll change those perceptions over time,” he told SBS.
In a blow to the Socceroos, Cahill will miss the final group match against Spain after receiving his second yellow card against the Dutch.
