Netherlands left it late to eke out a 2-0 win in their FIFA World Cup opener against Senegal in match three at Al Thumama Stadium in Qatar on Monday.
The African champions showed fight throughout, but a well-timed header from winger Cody Gakpo in the 84th minute and a late strike from Davy Klaassen in the 99th minute secured a crucial three points for the Dutchmen in Group A.
Senegal were the more physical and attacking team, but were unable to capitalise on any of their chances.
[caption id="attachment_986816" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Davy Klaassen of the Netherlands, left, socres his side's second goal during the World Cup, group A match against Senegal at the Al Thumama Stadium in Doha, Qatar, on Monday. (AP Photo) -[/caption]
After the first round of Group A matches, Netherlands (three points) top the standings, owing to a higher goal difference than Sunday’s opening-match winners Ecuador (three points).
Ecuador defeated hosts Qatar 2-0 in the first match of the quadrennial tourney, while Monday morning’s Group B opener saw England thrash Iran 6-2.
Group B action continues at 3pm with USA up against Wales.
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