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Much Hype No Action in Argentina vs Netherlands

This was supposed to be the best game of the first stage for World Cup 2006. Group C was considered the toughest group in the tournament and soccer fans around the world waited anxiously to see the two soccer powerhouses, Argentina and Netherlands, face off. Both teams have already secured their place in the second round of Germany 2006 and it seemed that they did not care too much about the outcome of the game.

The game ended in a disappointing tie, with no goals. Both teams played with a different lineup. The Argentinean coach decided not to use two of his key players, Crespo and Saviola, as they both carry a yellow card from previous games. And Netherlands opened without Robben. Argentina gave a better performance during the first half of the game, and the second half was a no-event.

Netherlands could argue that they were robbed of two penalty shots due to Argentinean aggressive in the box, but the referee believed otherwise. Argentina finished at the top of Group C because of a goal difference in its advantage and will face Mexico tomorrow. Netherlands finished second and will meet Portugal for their first second stage match.