The Netherlands have come from behind to beat Australia 3-2 in a thrilling World Cup clash in Porto Alegre.

The Aussies started the match positively, and they came close to making the breakthrough on 17 minutes when Mark Bresciano's effort from the edge of the box was deflected wide.

The Netherlands threatened at the other end moments later, but Robin van Persie's tame header was easily held by Mathew Ryan.

Louis van Gaal's side finally opened the scoring with 19 minutes played as Arjen Robben made a bursting run from inside his own half before calmly slotting the ball home.

However, Australia responded just 70 seconds later as Tim Cahill smashed an unstoppable volley on the angle past Jasper Cillessen following a long ball over the top.

The Aussies showed plenty of attacking intent after going level, and they could have made it 2-1 had Bresciano not blasted the ball over the crossbar after arriving late in the box.

The Netherlands began the second half in determined fashion, but it was the Aussies who put themselves ahead on 52 minutes thanks to a controversial penalty.

Daryl Janmaat was penalised for a handball when he blocked a cross from the left before Mile Jedinak stepped up to slot the ball home from the spot.

It took the Dutch just three minutes to get back on level terms though, as Van Persie found the back of the net with a powerful drive after being picked out inside the area.

Van Persie and his teammates started to take control of the contest once they got themselves back on terms, and they took the lead for the second time on 67 minutes when substitute Memphis Depay's innocuous drive somehow found its was past goalkeeper Ryan.

Chances for Robben and Nigel de Jong followed as the Netherlands increased the pressure on a waning Australia side, but they were unable to extend their advantage before the final whistle.