2010 World Cup: Netherlands v Japan half time report
Netherlands 0 Japan 0
Group E's two frontrunners, Netherlands and Japan, played out a goalless first half at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.
It's been a rather uneventful 45 minutes with chances few and far between for both sides. The Oranje have controlled the match as expected, but Japan's defence have continued from where they left off in the first match by standing firm and resolute throughout.
Wesley Sneijder came closest to breaking the deadlock for the Dutch with a free kick from range, although it was always rising.
The Europeans appear to be in desperate need of Arjen Robben's flair and creativity in the second half. Perhaps Bert van Marwijk will be tempted to take a gamble on the winger's fitness after the interval.
Meanwhile, Japan will be content to play out the next 45 minutes in the exact same fashion to seal their fourth point of the tournament.
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