Netherlands and USA proceed to knockout round

SYDNEY, August 1: The Netherlands proceed to the knockout round by topping their group as they rained a total of 7 goals against their opposition Vietnam. 

The Dutch started the third and final group game second in Group E, behind the United States on goal difference, while Vietnam was already eliminated following a defeat by fellow debutants Portugal in their previous game.

On the other hand, the defending champions USA barely climbed to the next round as they forced a scoreless draw against Portugal.

Had they lost the match, the champs would’ve been knocked out of the tournament. Portugal on the other hand finished third in the group – only one point behind the USA – and is out of World Cup contention.

The world's number one side will now face the winners of Group G, which will be decided on Wednesday.