What a dramatic turn of events in this Netherlands vs. Mexico Round of 16 clash at the 2014 World Cup!
🟢 48′ – Giovani dos Santos strikes first!
Mexico took the lead early in the second half with a stunning goal from Giovani dos Santos. Controlling the ball brilliantly just outside the box, Dos Santos let off a low, powerful left-footed shot past Dutch keeper Jasper Cillessen. A true moment of magic and composure — a World Cup gem.
🔶 88′ – Wesley Sneijder levels it!
Just when it seemed like Mexico might pull off a huge upset, Wesley Sneijder stepped up with a thunderous half-volley after a knockdown from Huntelaar. It was Sneijder’s first goal of the tournament, and it couldn’t have come at a better moment — 1-1!
🔸 90+2′ – Controversial penalty!
In stoppage time, Arjen Robben went down in the box under a challenge from Rafa Márquez. The referee awarded a very contentious penalty, which Klaas-Jan Huntelaar coolly converted. That goal sealed a 2-1 win for the Netherlands and left Mexico heartbroken.
⚽ Final score: Netherlands 2 – 1 Mexico
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48’: Giovani dos Santos (Mexico)
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88’: Wesley Sneijder (Netherlands)
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90+2’ (PEN): Klaas-Jan Huntelaar (Netherlands)
A cruel end for El Tri, who were minutes away from reaching the quarter-finals, but total relief for the Oranje, who now move on to face Costa Rica in the next round.
🟢 You can replay the Dos Santos wonder goal here:
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(or search for “Dos Santos goal vs Netherlands 2014” on YouTube for the highlight)
What a match — another chapter in Mexico’s World Cup heartbreak, and another reminder of how fast football can change.
