FIFA World Cup 2014: Argentina vs Netherlands - 5 key players

Two of the biggest footballing nations will face off in a semi final clash on Wednesday in what promises to be a mouth watering encounter. Netherlands will be trying to emulate their performance from the 2010 World Cup of reaching another final and will look to hopefully winit for the first time.On the other hand, Argentina have finally broken their quarter final jinx and reached a semi final after 24 years. They would be looking to gofurther and laying their hands on the trophy a third time.Both the teams have reliedon players in different positions to carry them through nervy and close matches in this tournament. LaAlbiceleste have relied on the magic ofLionel Messi whereas Netherlands have relied on the counter attacking exploits of Arjen Robben to carry them through to the semi finals.However, apart from the obvious twothere are other players who would be key in deciding the outcome of the semifinals. We look at 5 such players.

#5 Dirk Kuyt

Labeled Mr. Duracell during his time at Liverpool, Dirk Kuyt is a player who has been an important cog in Van Gaal’s ever changing formations. It is his ability to play anywhere on the pitch that has won him plaudits in the tournament.

His game intelligence and positional understandinghas seen him being deployed at left back, right back, left wing and even as a striker. His best game till date was against Mexico where in sapping conditions he was one of the standout performers as he played in all of those above positions.

He has a high work rate and is disciplined which is an important asset for the Oranje whether they are defending or attacking. He may not have scored any goals till date but he has provided great support and was also instrumental in winning the key corner against Mexico which led to the equaliser.