Dutch beat Chile 2-0 in World Cup Group B decider

Leroy Fer and Memphis Depay struck two second half goals as The Netherlands beat Chile 2-0 to finish top of Group B with maximum points.

The match had looked headed for a draw but substitute Fer’s perfectly placed header in the 77th unlocked the Chilean defence.

Then came Depay in the 90th minute with the easiest of tap ins when Arjen Robben scorched the pitch down the left before sending a low cross that killed off the South Americans.

It meant The Netherlands finished top of Group B with 9 points while Chile also advanced as second placed team.

Deposed champions Spain beat Australia 3-0 on goals from David Villa, Fernando Torres and Juan Mata to finish third while the Australians went home empty handed.

Inside the Arena de Sao Paolo, the tie was balanced than the final score line suggested with each looking to top the group and potentially avoid meeting the hosts, Brazil, in the second round.

Manchester United-bound Van Gaal rested Robin van Persie, leaving Jeremain Lens and Arjen Robben to probe the gritty Chileans.

The Dutchmen, however, lacked the sting that tore apart the already eliminated Spain and the Chileans did not also look menacing as when they beat Spain 2-0.

Chile got off to a strong start backed up by their vociferous fans, but were soon pegged back by the Dutch.

Charles Aranguiz did trouble Louis van Gaal’s men when sprinted clear of his marker, but had his pass to Alexis Sanchez in the middle cut out.

The Netherlands did respond and went close to opening the scores in the 12 minute when Stefan De Vrij went under Arjen Robbens’ brilliant free kick from the right, but the Feyenoord defender directed it over the bar.

The Dutchmen further pressed for the opener and were frustrated as Jeremain Lens blasted over after a powerful surge from the centre of the field.

Robben again in the 40th minute cantered into the Chilean area but his low shot curved away from Claudio Bravo’s goal.

It was a brilliant run from the Bayern Munich man as he picked the ball up in his own half motored into the Chilean area, cutting inside Gary Medel and then firing a low shot just past the far post.

With Manchester United striker Van Persie watching from the stands, Netherlands needed a real point man to unlock the Chileans, who had Alexis Sanchez committing them much of the time to defending.