Dutch resplendent in Rotterdam

The Netherlands kept their position at the top of FIFA World Cup qualifying Group 1 with a convincing victory against third-placed Romania.

One-point lead
Chelsea FC forward Arjen Robben broke the deadlock with 26 minutes on the clock, and Dirk Kuijt added the second for the hosts in Rotterdam in the first minute of the second half to keep the Dutch a point ahead of the Czech Republic, who defeated Andorra 8-1 today and are now five points above Romania.

Early saves
Romania's Claudiu Niculescu was the first to threaten, and Dutch goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar had to be alert to parry his effort to safety. The Netherlands came desperately close moments later when Kuijt's header following a Mark van Bommel corner was tipped over by goalkeeper Bogdan Lobont.

Robben strikes
Adrian Mutu, returning to the national team fold after his drugs suspension, looked somewhat rusty in attack for Romania, whereas the home team seemed sharp going forward. And they duly took the lead when Robben converted from five metres after a superb cross from Kuijt.

Killer blow
The hosts struck again 60 seconds after the break, when Robben swung in a free-kick from the right, and Kuijt scored with a powerful header from close range. They could have added to their lead but substitute Robin van Persie drilled a shot just wide of the mark after a sweeping move involving Robben and Rafael van der Vaart.

Romanian opportunity
Moments later Van der Vaart received a booking that means he will be suspended for Wednesday's visit to Finland. Romania came close to reducing the deficit with a rare opportunity, but Van der Sar was equal to Cosmin Contra's header.

Van Basten run
Marco van Basten's side then cruised to the final whistle, ensuring the coach completed his tenth unbeaten match since his appointment, a better start than any of his predecessors. Romania will attempt to resurrect their campaign at home to Armenia in four days' time.