Fortaleza (Brazil), June 29: The Netherlands will take on Mexico in the third pre-quarter final of the 2014 Fifa World Cup at the Estádio CastelÃo here on Sunday. Manchester United striker Robin van Persie, who has scored three goals in this World Cup, will return in this match after a ban but Leroy Fer, who scored the opening goal against Chile, looks a doubtful starter with a hamstring injury. Bruno Martins Indi is also reportedly not fully fit.

Brazil and Colombia entered the quarter-finals of the World Cup on Saturday.

The Netherlands have scored the most number of goals in this tournament so far (10), including five against defenders Spain in their opening game while the Mexican defence earned a pat on their back by refusing a single goal to Brazil in their group match. The Dutch have attempted 23 shots at the target, more than any other team in its group (B) in this World Cup.

Mexico haven't made the quarter finals of a World Cup since 1986

For the records, Mexico have lost three and drawn one of their last four matches with the Dutch and conceded at least two goals on each of those games.

The El Tri have also lost in the second round of the World in all editions since 1994. The last time they had made it to the quarters final was in 1986.

The Netherlands, on the other hand, have won nine of their last 10 World Cup games, with the only loss being the one in the final of the 2010 World Cup.

For Mexico, defensive midfielder Jose Juan Vazquez is facing a ban and Fulham man Carlos Salcido is set to come in.

The Dutch are not taking the Mexicans lightly, particularly given the hot and humid conditions under which the game will be played.

Road to Round of 16:

The Netherlands defeated Spain 5-1, Australia 3-2 and Chile 2-0 to top Group B with nine points, one of the four teams to do so in this World Cup.

Mexico finished second in Group B although finishing with same points (7) with toppers Brazil. They beat Colombia 1-0 and Croatia 3-1 while drawing 0-0 with Brazil.
The match starts at 9.30 pm IST.

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