The Netherlands progressed to the semi-finals of the World Cup on Sunday, but not before Louis van Gaal had time to pull a masterstroke substitution that helped his side triumph against Costa Rica.

After an entertaining 120 minute battle in which neither side managed to find a breakthrough, the match was sent to penalties. But with just seconds left of extra-time, Van Gaal made the extraordinary decision to take off No.1 Jasper Cillessen and replace him with Tim Krul.

The Newcastle shot-stopper duly rewarded his manager's gutsy change, diving the right way on all five penalties, unnerving the Costa Rican penalty takers and making two powerful saves to win the contest. Despite his heroics, though, he will return to the bench against Argentina!
Sunday, July 6, 2014 12:30

Sport »  Soccer/Football  Championships

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