The Netherlands pulled off a shock victory over defending champions Spain in tonight's hugely anticipated Group B World Cup clash in Brazil.

Despite falling behind to the reigning World and European champions, Robin van Persie and Arjen Robben Arjen Robben scored two goals apiece as the Dutch stormed to a stunning 5 - 1 win.

Spain took the lead after 27 minutes when Xabi Alonso converted from the penalty spot but they were left to rue a missed chance from David Silva to double their lead before Holland took charge.

Van Persie equalised before half-time with a flying header and Stefan de Vrij also scored with a controversial back-post header.

But it was Robben who was the central figure for the Dutch, scoring with a superb Bergkamp-esque control and finish to put them ahead for the first time before finishing off a trademark dribble with 10 minutes remaining.