Argentina Beat Netherlands To Set Up Finals Clash With Germany

by Benson Agoha

* Hero of the match: Sergio Romero
saved two shots to help his side win.

Argentina has qualified for the finals after goal-less game that spilled over to extra-time.

After 120 minutes of play, during which neither side was able to break the deadlock, both teams knew the decider must emerge tonight.

It was a game in which Lionel Messi could be forgiven for an apparent lackluster performance. But Manchester United's Robin van Persie was diligent.

Still, it is goals that make a difference even in big tournaments like the World Cup. The goals however, just refused to come.

* Romero's stretches to save Sneijder's a shot.

In the end though, the Argentine team relished their victory as they booked their place with already qualified Germany.

Argentina's win through a 4:2 penalty shootout means a tough final should likely be expected.

The game was a sharp contrast to the first semifinal clash between Brazil and Germany which ended in normal time after Germany thrashed hosts Brazil 7:1.

Anxiety was felt by players, as well as fans. And the managers of the two sides were not spared by the cameras.

* Fans: The ladies were on hand
to cheer their team up.

While the Argentine coach managed his anxiety by deliberate self-distraction and kicking football on side lines, Netherland's Louis van Gaal, who is due to take over at Manchester United was visibly not happy with the goal drought.

But at the end, the penalties settled the dispute, as the Argentine goalkeeper, Sergio Romero whose two spectacular saves, earned him the title 'hero of the match'.

Romero should better be able to keep out more of the rampant shots to be expected from the Germans in the final.

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