Photographs: Jeff Gross/Getty Images
The Netherlands turned in a scintillating show to humble defending champions Spain 5-1 in a Group 'B' FIFA World Cup match in Salvador.
It was the heaviest defeat for a defending champion at the World Cup. Every other champion had lost by a goal.
It was also the heaviest defeat suffered by the Spanish national side since 1961.
The Dutch came from behind to avenge the defeat in the 2010 World Cup final in South Africa, the match witnessing their 'Total Football' making a mockery of the Spanish tiki-taka.
Robin van Persie scored a spectacular equalizer just before the break to spark the revival.
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Alonso's penalty put Spain 1-0 ahead
Photographs: Paul Gilham/Getty Images
Xabi Alonso had put Spain ahead with a penalty, after Diego Costa was fouled.
The holders looked in complete control early in the game, their passing game working to perfection.
However, the Dutch defense somehow held on.
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Robben scored a brace
Photographs: Jeff Gross/Getty Images
Arjen Robben put the Dutch ahead in the second half with a spectacular solo goal before Stefan de Vrij scored his first international goal to make it 3-1.
Van Persie then got his second before Robben completed the rout.
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It was a forgettable night for Spain's 'keeper Iker Casillas
Photographs: David Ramos/Getty Images
It was a forgettable night for Spain's goalkeeper, Iker Casillas.
Spain had conceded just three goals in the 2010 World Cup and the 2012 Euro Championships combined.
In this match he conceded five.
It was Spain's worst defeat in more than half a century, coming 51 years after a 6-2 defeat to Scotland in 1963.
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