THE Netherlands have been impressive so far in this World Cup and look to progress to the quarter-finals today against Group A runner-up Mexico.

The Dutch swept to maximum points as they won Group B, while Mexico qualified comfortably with seven points behind Brazil.

Ana Munoz, who works in Bournemouth, is cheering on her native Mexico.

She said the entire country stopped when the team took to the field and today would be no different as they dare to dream the impossible.

At 9pm Group D winners Costa Rica – fancied as the whipping boys in a group involving Italy and England, who have both failed to make it this far – take on surprise package Greece, who came runner-up in Group C after winning their final game against Ivory Coast.

Alan Young has roots in Costa Rica and has been following their fortunes.

He said: “Group of Death? This Costa Rican team is immortal! Our tight knit squad has demonstrated unmatched tactical discipline and composure in getting to the top of Group D and I expect us to go further.

“While our performance against England was our weakest, with few incisive attacks, I think goals will come against Greece.

“While the Greeks impressed against Ivory Coast with quick breaks, they also defended with a higher line which, if repeated, could provide our wing backs the space to set up some slick counter-attacks themselves.

“In addition, Jorge Luis Pinto, our manager, will have ironed out the remaining creases in our performances.

“Three different Costa Ricans have taken the Man of the Match awards in all our group games and if the trend continues the next player due for a stand-out performance is Celso Borges.

“While playing a deeper holding role for Costa Rica, he has a great goal scoring record at club level and almost whipped in a free kick against England. I expect him to get on the score sheet as Costa Rica edge Greece 2-1.”

Giannis Cottrell, who goes to Bournemouth University, is supporting his native Greece.

He said: “This was a great victory for the Greek national team (Ethiniki).

“For the first time in history Greece made it to the 16 top football teams in the world and with the most minimalist way – just two goals in the entire World Cup.

“Despite some difficulties at the beginning and many lost opportunities where the goal hit the post, the two Sams, the scorers, Samarhs and Samaras, managed to make their country proud.

“The team had received a lot of criticism and it seems they were determined to prove everyone wrong and do their best.

“Personally I don’t think the team will go far in the next knock-out round. I am not sure what will happen with Costa Rica on Sunday, but I hope for the best.

“Nevertheless, everyone is pleased even with this outcome.”

Giannis also sent us a video of the reaction to the goal in Greece’s final group game as he watched the game in Greece.