World Cup

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Attendance: 51,179

World Cup | Quarter-Finals

Jul 5, 2014 at 9pm UK

Netherlands
0-0
Costa Rica

FT
(aet)

Netherlands win 4-3 on penalties

Half-Time Report: Goalless between Netherlands, Costa Rica in quarter-final clash

By Simon Sinclair, Reporter | 05 July 2014

Neither side can find a breakthrough in the first 45 minutes of the World Cup quarter-final clash between the Netherlands and Costa Rica.

The score remains goalless after 45 minutes in the World Cup quarter-final clash between the Netherlands and Costa Rica in Salvador.

The game started slowly as the Netherlands dominated possession, but were unable to break down the organised backline of Jorge Luis Pinto's side.

Dirk Kuyt of the Netherlands is challenged by Christian Bolanos of Costa Rica during the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Quarter Final match between the Netherlands and Costa Rica at Arena Fonte Nova on July 5, 2014 © Getty Images

Louis van Gaal's side could have taken the lead in the 22nd minute when Memphis Depay found Robin van Persie in space inside the box, but his shot was well-saved by Keylor Navas, while Wesley Sneijder hit the rebound straight at the keeper.

The Oranje continued to press and Van Persie turned provider for Depay for their next opportunity as he slid a through-ball down the left, but the forward's shot was well-saved by Navas with his feet.

Costa Rica began to grow into the half and forced a scramble in the Netherlands backline when Campbell knocked the ball into the six-yard box, but Bruno Martins Indi cleared the ball before Bryan Ruiz could pounce.

The Netherlands showed pace on the break and Arjen Robben managed to win a free kick that allowed Sneijder a chance to threaten the Costa Rica goal. The midfielder fired a curling effort from 30 yards at goal, but again Navas was there to deny him.