Netherlands overcame their World Cup jinx by beating Costa Rica 4-3 on  penalties, after their quarter-final encounter ended goalless.

It was a just reward as the Dutch dominated the 120-minute game, beating the Costa Ricans in all the departments. The Dutch had possession 64-36, 11 corner kicks to only one by their opponents and they had eight shots on target to only one shot by Costa Rica.

Tim Krul: Dutch hero, ousts Costa Rica

Dutch players celebrate with Krul

After so many efforts to get a goal were frustrated by Costa Rica defence and their goal keeper, Kaylor Navas, the Dutch made a clinical finish in the penalties. And they have to give thanks to their goal-keeper, Tim Krul who replaced Jasper Cillesen in the 120th minute. Krul made the night miserable to the Costa Ricans.

Celso Borges took the first shot for Costa Rica, which, substituted  keeper Tim Crul could not stop. But Robin Van Persie neutralised the goal.

Crul stopped Brian Ruiz  and Michael Umana’s shots, while Arjen Robben, Wesley Sneijder and Dirk Kuyt all scored for the Dutch.

In the earlier match of the day, Argentina defeated Belgium by a lone goal, scored in the 8th minute by  Gonzalo Higuain.