Holland produced an outstanding counter-attacking display to beat Italy, with Real Madrid's Wesley Sneijder and Hamburg's Rafael van der Vaart at the heart of much of the side's good work in the first half.
The duo attacked with verve, showing quick feet and causing frequent problems for the Italians, who are without key defender Fabio Cannavaro for the tournament.
On this showing, it appears certain a European giant will move for Van der Vaart after the tournament, with Chelsea already having shown interest in February.
But the industry of Feyenoord's Giovanni van Bronckhorst at left-back and Liverpool's Dirk Kuyt on the right wing was just as crucial to this victory.
Both players were committed in defence and relentless in supporting the attack, and they got their just reward as Van Bronckhorst played a major role in the second goal before scoring the third and Kuyt provided the assists for both.
A trio of Premier League players also helped the Dutch to keep a clean sheet, with Manchester United keeper Edwin van der Sar looking solid throughout and, when called upon to make a spectacular save late on, proved to be ready and able.
In defence, Blackburn's Andre Ooijer - who recently signalled his intention to use the tournament to find a new club - proved solid throughout, and the new manager at Ewood Park may look to give the player the first-team opportunities he craves if he maintains his form.
Khalid Boulahrouz, too, looked assured at the highest level and the new Chelsea boss may consider giving 'The Cannibal' a second chance.
The 26-year-old spent last season on loan at Sevilla but found his opportunities restricted by injury, yet he appeared to have grown in stature since his debut season at Chelsea, where Ronaldinho memorably exposed him time and again when the Blues played Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League.
There was positive news for Arsenal fans, too, as Robin van Persie made his comeback from injury and looked to have lost none of his fast-paced trickery. A late shot after a fine piece of skill could have added to Italy's woes, and the player is likely to improve as he regains his fitness.
Italy
For Italy, only reported Chelsea target Andrea Pirlo truly stood out. The Milan midfielder looked assured, spraying long passes around the pitch, and he could have brought his side back into it with a clever free-kick while the score was at 2-0.
Gennaro Gattuso - who has now committed his future to Milan after suggestions he would welcome a move to the Premier League - also put in a typically solid display, but he was unable to stamp his authority on the game as Holland found success on the break.
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