FIFA World Cup Round of 16 : Netherlands vs USA

 In the first game of the knock outs, Netherlands took on a rather young & inexperienced USA. The more experienced & formidable Dutch, ensured that there are no hiccups & game doesn't go out of their grip, registering a clinical win 3-1 to reach the quarterfinals. Underdogs USA did put a valiant fight, but were no match to the skills & capabilities of the Orange Netherlands. 

USA began well & should've taken a lead as early as in the 3rd minute, when Pulisic had a clear sight of the Dutch goal, but his weak shot was easily saved by the lanky keeper Noppert. Probably Pulisic ws taken by surprise or the situation was overwhelming for him to miss. This proved costly as minutes later, Depay received the ball from Dumfries & buried in the bottom left corner, as Netherlands went up 1-0. The game slowly crept under the control of the Orange' & just before the end of 1st half, Dumfries unlocked the US defense once gain. He cut back the ball to Blind, who chased from the flanks & smashed the ball into the net to make it 2-0. 

Midway in teh 2nd half, USA did provide a glimmer of hope, when around the 70th minute, substitute Yedlin played the ball to Pulisic who lobbed the ball to Wright, who in turn pushed the ball over keeper Noppert into the net for a fortuitous goal to make the score 2-1. However, Netherlands stayed on top of the game, & around the 82nd minute, Dumfries again was in the thick of affairs, by adding to his two assists, by receiving a cross from Blind & his controlled volley went past Turner into the net to bury the game at 3-1. 

Netherlands deservingly won the game, & move into the last eight, where they will await the winner of Argentina vs Australia, while USA make their exit. They would be taking good lessons from this campaign & prepare well for 2026, when the Co-host the tournament in their back yard.