So the World Cup final match in Rio is set!
Argentina 0 (4) - Netherlands 0 (2)
In a rather conservatively-played game, both defenses were solid through 120 minutes.
In the end, Argentina were far superior in penalties.
Sergio Romero saved two of four penalties, which was more than Argentina needed, making all four they attempted. Did watching tape of the Dutch penalties against Costa Rica game give the Argentine GK the edge he needed?
Jasper Cillessen looked wan and outmatched in goal. Louis van Gaal lacked a remaining sub to swap in Tim Krul for the penalty shootout. I found Krul's antics and gamesmanship to be unsporting during the Costa Rica match, but at least he looked ready to stop some penalty shots.
Regardless, the Dutch will now face Brazil in the consolation match. Is it harder to lose in a 1-7 blow-out or a penalty squeaker? Who can regroup to take home third place? My money is on the Dutch but my heart is hoping for a Brazil victory.
As for the final, I have to hand it to Messi and company. I never thought they would make it past the quarter-finals.
Now, they will have to face the imposing Germans.
After yesterday's rout, Germany is the obvious favorite. Does Messi have one last win that he can pull out of his bag of tricks? It will be an uphill battle for Argentina, but even Brazil was able to break down the German defense in yesterday's game. Argentina showed stout defense against a formidable Dutch attack today.
My guess is that it is 2-0 Germany, but I'd love to see Argentina pull off the upset.
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