Robben gives Dutch 1-0 lead over Slovakia at halftime of round of 16 match at World Cup

Dutch lead Slovakia 1-0 at halftime

DURBAN, South Africa — The Netherlands are leading Slovakia 1-0 at halftime on a goal by Arjen Robben in the round of 16 match at World Cup on Monday.

Robben, making his first start at the tournament, scored in the 18th minute off a precise cross from Wesley Sneijder. He beat two defenders before stroking in a low shot.

Robin van Persie squandered two chances for the Netherlands, heading wide in the 7th minute and hitting a weak shot 5 minutes before the break.

The Dutch comfortably dominated the match at Moses Mabhida Stadium.

Slovakia failed to reproduce the attacking spirit that saw it eliminate Italy 3-2 in the final group game. The underdogs tried to test Dutch goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg with long-range shots, but early efforts were off-target.