TWB22: 02/27/21

Semi Final

Stade Velodrome

7 July 1998

Referee Ali Bujsaim
Attendance 54,000

It wasn't the kind of shootout Brazil expected to win, but the world champions are nothing if not adaptable. Goalkeeper Claudio Taffarel made two diving saves as Brazil defeated The Netherlands 4-2 on penalty kicks Tuesday night to advance to the championship match Sunday of the World Cup. "That was God helping me," he said. Brazil, seeking an unprecedented fifth crown, will play the winner of Wednesday's game between France and Croatia. A surprisingly tame match was tied 1-1 after 120 minutes. "There were times when we were afraid and Holland were afraid also," Brazil midfielder Rivaldo admitted. "That's why the match went to penalties."