The finest XI from the second group in Brazil.
The 2014 World Cup in Brazil is starting to really take shape now and Monday night saw the conclusion of Group B, with Netherlands progressing as winners and Chile following them in second.
The big shock was the elimination of reigning champions Spain, whilst Australia lost all three of their games in a tough pool, although were by no means completely out of their depth.
Here is the best starting XI from the group:
GK – Claudio Bravo, Chile
This Real Sociedad goalkeeper has been attracting plenty of attention recently for his fine performances, with particularly good showings in the victories over the Australians and the Spanish.
RB – Mauricio Isla, Chile
Sticking with the South Americans and this Juventus right-back has been a real source of creativity for his nation going forward, although may need to sharpen up somewhat in defence.
CB – Ron Vlaar, Netherlands
There are less so-called stars in the Dutch side than has been true of the past, but this Aston Villa captain has been solid at the back throughout the tournament and is also a significant threat from set pieces.
CB – Gonzalo Jara, Chile
Although generally operates as a full-back for his club side Nottingham Forest, Jara has been playing more centrally for the Chileans and yet still manages to get forward at every available opportunity.
LB – Daley Blind, Netherlands
On the left side is an Ajax star who started the competition brilliantly with a fine display against the Spaniards in a 5-1 rout, but has perhaps dropped in form slightly as things have gone on and will need to raise his game once more.
CM – Arturo Vidal, Chile
Although this Juve ace missed the final match of the group due to suspension, his performances in the previous two wins proves why many believe Vidal to be the finest box-to-box midfielder in world football currently.
CM – Charles Aranguiz, Chile
Alongside his national teammate in central midfield is a 25-year-old who has been a key part of the South Americans’ potency in attack, scoring against the world champions with a well crafted finish.
RM – Alexis Sanchez, Chile
The final star from the nation is an FC Barcelona forward who although has often found life at the Nou Camp frustrating, is the key component in perhaps the most talented Chile side ever seen – which would probably point to why Arsenal are interested in signing the 25-year-old.
CAM – Tim Cahill, Australia
Although his side crashed out of the tournament without a single point to their name, the Australians’ performance against the Dutch was particularly impressive and Cahill netted twice in the competition.
LM – Arjen Robben, Netherlands
Arguably the front runner for the Golden Ball award for best player currently, this Bayern Munich winger has been the spearhead in everything creative for Louis van Gaal’s men and also has three goals to his name so far.
ST – Robin van Persie, Netherlands
Finally leading the attack is another player who missed the last group math due to suspension, but has already announced himself on the tournament with three strikes.
SEE ALSO: The 50 best players at the 2014 World Cup.