Dutch win clouded by injury scare

Cape Town - Arjen Robben score one goal and set up another as Netherlands secured a comfortable 2-0 result over Wales in an international friendly at the Amsterdam Arena.

Having spurned a golden opportunity to put his side 1-0 up early in the match, Robben atoned by finding the back of the net in the 32nd minute.

Striker Robin van Persie's shot was saved at point-blank range by Wayne Henessey, but the experienced winger was on hand to convert the rebound.

Clearly missing an injured Gareth Bale up front, Wales lacked the attacking edge necessary to trouble the Dutch at the back, though Simon Church and Jermaine Easter both had half chances to get back on level terms which they failed to convert.

Van Persie was close to making it 2-0 before half-time, as he opened up his body to divert Daryl Janmaat's right-wing cross just past the post.

The Manchester United striker was withdrawn at half-time with a minor groin problem by Louis van Gaal, who will be his club boss at Old Trafford next season.

In the 76th minute, Netherlands doubled their lead, as Robben made a run down the right and delivered a superb square ball to substitute Jeremain Lens, who tapped it in for the home side's second.

Despite the comfortable victory, boss Louis van Gaal will know that his side need to convert more of their chances if they are to seriously challenge for the trophy in Brazil when the World Cup kicks off in eight days' time.

The Netherlands boss must now hope that Van Persie will be fully fit for the World Cup clash with holders Spain on Friday, 13 June.