After the first two group matches, the Netherlands had already qualified for the second round, while Cameroon knew this was its final match in this World Cup, after two disappointing defeats by Japan and Denmark.
The match came as an excellent opportunity for the Dutch to build confidence and team spirit for the knockout phase. Dutch coach Bert van Marwijk kept to his initial line-up with only one change: swapping in veteran defender Khalid Bouhlarouz for talented Ajax defender Gregory van der Wiel who received a yellow card in the match against Japan.
As in its first games the Dutch team played patiently and constructively. After 36 minutes, Arsenal striker Robin van Persie scored his first goal this World Cup on an assist from Rafael van der Vaart. The Dutch striker fired the ball though the Cameroon goalkeeper’s legs.
In the 65th minute Dutch midfielder van der Vaart blocked a free kick with his arm. Eto' O converted the penalty resolutely and brought Cameroon back in the game.
Maybe the most exciting moment of the match was when winger Arjen Robben entered the pitch in the 73th minute to the loud applause of the Orange fans. The talented dribbler has recovered, as quick as lightning, from a hamstring injury and might become one of the greatest stars of a tournament which has lacked true excitement so far.
Once again it became obvious the Dutch team performs better with wingers like Robben and Elia on the sides, which gives their game more depth.
"When you win three matches in a World Cup, it deserves a compliment. But I am not fully satisfied. The first half was still alright, but the start of the second half was not great, very sloppy,” winning coach van Marwijk told Dutch media.
African fans were disappointed to see another African team exit the tournament, but Cameroon left with their heads held high.
The Netherlands is to face Slovakia in the first round of the knockout phase on Monday.
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