Netherlands crush defending champions Spain 5-1 in WC clash

Netherlands came from behind to beat defending champions Spain 5-1 in their FIFA World Cup opener to crush the favourites in a stunned Arena Fonte Nova.

Initially Spain opened their World Cup campaign with a goal netted by Xabi Alonso in a penalty to live up to their favourites tab, but Robin van Persie's equaliser followed by Arjen Robben's goal put Netherlands in front before half-time.

According to BBC, Stefan de Vrij scored a third goal from Wesley Sneijder's free-kick, followed by another goal from Van Persie to make it four and then Robben's solo effort sealed the win for Louis van Gaal's side.

Spain were reportedly humbled and humiliated in the repeat of the 2010 World Cup final, as they look to win a fourth consecutive major international trophy.

The last time Spain conceded five goals in an international match was in 1963, and the outcome of the match might not only be a fatal blow to their hopes in this tournament, but it could signal the end of an era for one of the game's greatest teams, the report added.