Mexico to face Dutch in knockout stage

Mexico will face Louis van Gaal’s impressive Dutch side in the World Cup knockout stages after seeing off Croatia last night.

Only needing a point to progress, Miguel Herrera’s side saw off Croatia with a convincing second-half display last night.

After a goalless first half, Rafael Marquez gave them the lead on 72 minutes and Andres Guardado doubled the advantage three minutes later.

Manchester United’s Javier Hernandez ensured Mexico’s progress with his 82nd minute goal.

Croatia did pull a goal back, Ivan Perisic scoring after 87 minutes but their misery was completed two minutes later as Ante Rebic was sent off for a professional foul.

Mexico side will now face Louis van Gaal’s impressive Dutch side in the second round.

CROATIA: Pletikosa, Srna, Vrsaljko (Kovacic 58), Pranjic (Jelavic 74), Corluka, Lovren, Perisic, Rakitic, Mandzukic, Modric, Olic (Rebic 69).

MEXICO: Ochoa, Aguilar, Layun, Moreno, Marquez, Rodriguez, Herrera, Vazquez, Peralta (Pena 79), Dos Santos (Hernandez 62), Guardado (Fabian 84).

Referee: Ravshan Irmatov