Netherlands, Chile eye Group B top spot

Sao Paulo, June 22 (IANS/EFE) The Netherlands and Chile meet in Arena Corinthians here Monday in their last Group B match of the FIFA World Cup eyeing for the top spot.

The two teams, who have already qualified for the second round, will aim to clinch first place to avoid a prospective last 16 meeting against host Brazil, who are favourite to take first place in Group A, reports EFE.

"I think that our ability to turn our defeat to victory two times now reveal something," said Robin van Persie, who will miss the Monday clash due to suspension.

A draw would secure first place for Netherlands, while Chile will need to win to take first place.

"It will be hard for me and Alexis Sanchez to break through a defence of five players, but we are at the team's service," said Chile's Eduardo Vargas, while stressing that his team's goal is to top the group.

Avoiding meeting the hosts will be on the minds of both Louis van Gaal and Mario Sampaoli despite both teams having defeated title holders Spain 5-1 and 2-0, respectively.

The Netherlands currently lead the group standings with six points, and goal difference puts them above Chile, who as well have six points, while Australia and Spain are third and fourth, respectively, with zero points.

--IANS/EFE

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