The Netherlands gave a master class in counter-attacking football to the current World Cup holders Italy. This game was the most entertaining so far, for a neutral fan is was refreshing to see a game with both teams going for the win from the start.
The Netherlands got lucky with the first goal as Ruud van Nistelrooy was offside when he deflected the ball into the back of the net. However, the second goal was a joy to watch, with Italy attacking from a corner one minute and Wesley Sneijder hitting the back of the net the next. The third goal was another flowing counter-attack started by Edwin van der Sar's brilliant saves from Fabio Grosso and Andrea Pirlo before Giovanni van Bronckhorst finished off the move by heading the ball passed Buffon after 80 minutes.
If the Netherlands keep this form up then they must be favourites to reach the final and win the tournament. They really were a joy to watch, fast flowing football. However, the world champions Italy have a mountain to climb with Romania and France to face. They must get over the defeat quickly otherwise they will find themselves on the plane home early.
Result
Netherlands 3-0 Italy