FORTALEZA, Brazil (AP) – Netherlands captain Robin van Persie is back in the Netherlands lineup to face Mexico on Sunday in the second round of the World Cup.
The team’s all-time leading scorer missed the final group match because of suspension.
Netherlands coach Louis van Gaal has made one other change to his lineup, giving Paul Verhaegh only his third international start as a replacement for right back Daryl Janmaat.
Miguel Herrera made only one change to his Mexico team, moving Carlos Salcido into midfield to replace the suspended Jose Vasquez.
Van Persie missed the 2-0 win over Chile and joins Arjen Robben in a potent attack that has already combined to score six goals at this tournament.
Also, Dirk Kuyt will play in his 100th international match for the Netherlands, but only his second at left back.
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Lineups:
Netherlands: Jasper Cillessen; Paul Verhaegh, Daley Blind, Ron Vlaar, Stefan de Vrij, Dirk Kuyt; Nigel de Jong, Georginio Wijnaldum, Wesley Sneijder; Arjen Robben, Robin van Persie.
Mexico: Guillermo Ochoa; Francisco Rodriguez, Rafael Marquez, Hector Moreno, Miguel Layun, Paul Aguilar; Carlos Salcido, Andres Guardado, Hector Herrera; Giovani Dos Santos, Oribe Peralta.