FIFA World Cup 2014: Argentina vs Netherlands Second Semi-final Match in Pictures

DESPITE a number of stars on each side, the game lacked flair, was devoid of clear-cut chances, and had nothing exciting until the penalty shootout.Shootouts always are exciting. This one was too. Semi-finals are usually close. This one was too.

So close that Argentina, having the likes of Lionel Messi, Gonzalo Higuain and Sergio Aguero, and the Netherlands, having Arjen Robben, Robin Van Persie and Wesley Sneijder, combined for just eight shots on target during 120 minutes.

A day after Germany annihilated hosts Brazil 7-1 in the first semi-final, the Albiceleste and the Dutch played the antidote here at the Arena Corinthians on Wednesday to what the other two semi-finalists did at Belo Horizonte’s Estadio Mineirao.

Argentina, though, advanced to a final against Germany on Sunday after Sergio Romero’s pulled off two stunning saves in the shootout for a 4-2 win on penalties after a goalless draw at the end of extra-time.