For champions Spain, it was a disastrous start to their Cup defence this evening as they were ruthlessly crushed 5-1 in a Group B opener in Salvador, Brazil, by the Netherlands, whom they defeated four years back in the final of the same championship in South Africa.

The world champions were completely overwhelmed and lashed after taking the lead via a 27^th minute penalty converted by Xabi Alonso.

Robin van Persie and Arjen Robben led Spain’s humiliation with a brace each Van Persie cancelled out Spain’s lead in the 44^th minute with a flying header while Robben extended put the Dutch in the driver’s seat in the 53^rd minute.

Stefan de Vrij extended the lead in the 64^th minute, with Van Persie striking again in the 72^nd minute after robbing veteran goalkeeper Ike Casillas of the ball.

Robben completed the rout in the 80^th after beating Pique and Ramos and – of course, Casillas, to leave scores at an unbelievable 5-1.

•Photo shows Robin van Persie heading home the first of his two goals in Netherlands’ demolition of Spain . . . this night in Salvador, Brazil.