Photo: Memphis Depay scores the winner for the Netherlands against Australia (Getty Images)
The new Dutch sensation Memphis Depay has taken a big step towards international stardom after a sizzling performance in his first World Cup game against Australia. The 20 year old who has just completed his third season at PSV, showed the world why he is rated so highly in his home country.
With the game locked at 1-1 and an injury to defender Bruno Martins Indi, manager Louis van Gaal decided to throw the 20 year old speedster into the action. It was just a matter of seconds before the whistle was blown for half time.
In the second half the fleet-footed youngster displayed his trickery, pace and intelligence as he was a constant threat down the left side. Known for his pace, cutting inside on his preferred right foot and then having a go at goal he used his intelligence to be unpredictable. He went on the outside at times, cut inside or played a give and go eliminating the possibility of being read by his marker.
He bagged an assist when he cut inside on his right foot and had the presence and vision to pick out the run of his captian Robin van Persie who finished off a brilliant move. He then bagged the winner when he picked the ball up just inside Australia’s half, got passed one defender before unleashing one of his trademark long range efforts pass Mathew Ryan in goal. It was a brilliant play from a youngster who has received rave reviews in his country and is being watched by a few elite clubs in Europe.
Depay showed great composure on the ball and never looked flustered by the occasion. He has a good head on his shoulders and can certainly learn a lot especially from Arjen Robben. He will surely get more time on the pitch in Brazil and if he continues then the Netherlands can go a far way and his asking price will certainly escalate because there will be many clubs fighting for his signature.
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