Argentina and Holland played out an entertaining 0-0 draw in Frankfurt as both nations concluded their passages through Group C.

The South Americans, who finish as group winners and now face Mexico in the second round, started brightly with Juan Roman Riquelme's whipped-in corners being nervously cleared by the Dutch, while Andre Ooijer's outstretched boot prevented Esteban Cambiasso a clear run on goal.

Holland finally found their rhythm with Dirk Kuyt's powerful shot forcing a solid block from Roberto Abbondanzieri on his near post.

Edwin van der Sar, winning a record-equalling 112th cap, had to be alert to push another Riquelme corner kick over the bar, before the playmaker's free-kick into the box was turned onto his own post by Khalid Boulahrouz.

Maxi Rodriguez then came within a whisker of handing Argentina the lead when he unleashed a 25-yard shot which flew inches wide of the upright.

Kuyt directed a header just wide of the post, while Lionel Messi embarked on a bewitching run that saw him release a shot that van der Sar did well to gather as the half drew to a close.

Argentina continued pressing after the break, with Riquelme dragging a shot on the run inches past the post, while Rodriguez floated an effort over the bar after cutting inside from the right.

As both teams started pushing for the win, spaces were starting to emerge with Phillip Cocu forcing a save from Abbondanzieri from a tight angle, while van der Sar produced a diving save to deny Carlos Tevez.

Argentina brought on Julio Cruz and Pablo Aimar in the closing stages but there was no way through as they finished top of the group and lined up a second-round clash clash with Mexico, while Holland go on to face Group D winners Portugal.