Dutch grind out opening win over Danes

The Netherlands began their World Cup campaign with a 2-0 victory over Denmark on Monday in their Group E match at Sports City.

Both goals came in the second-half with an own goal by Simon Poulsen and a late one from Liverpool’s Dirk Kuyt giving the Dutch a perfect start to their campaign as they seek to put an end to having never won the trophy.

They will also be delighted to have taken the three points without injured winger Arjen Robben, who sat out the match but is expected to be available for the remaining two matches.