'We can become world champions' - claims Louis van Gaal
Van Gaal thinks his side could go all the way to the final despite their many critics
Louis van Gaal’s side may not exactly play the sort of football that Netherlands is known for but former Manchester United boos thinks they can “become world champions” all the same.
Netherlands managed to knock out USA in the World Cup last 16 after an early Memphis Depay goal was accompanied by two goals from Daley Blind and Denzel Dumfries as they beat USMNT 3-1. The result make it seem like it was an easy game for Oranje but it was far from it as
USAhad more control over the match and even more shots on target.
’ economic and pragmatic victories at the World Cup have drawn much criticism but van Gaal was quick to shrug those off by saying: "I get enough appreciation from the people around me. I know the media don't always report in a positive way, it's a given in football, but some top countries didn't progress, we still have three matches to go.
"We can become world champion. I am not saying that we will, but that we can."
Van Gaal wasn’t all praise though as he pointed out their shortcomings, especially in the first half, as he explained: "I was very critical at half-time in my analysis I share with my players as usual.
"Despite being in the lead, we suffered so much, we were dispossessed so often, it was not necessary and that's not acceptable at a World Cup, if you play top countries you cannot make it.
"In the second half they did a much better job but nevertheless we were very pleased, and gives us incredible confidence. We will evaluate the match, then roll up our sleeves and get to work again, I can't promise any more than that."
Van Gaal is set to leave his position as Netherlands’ head coach at the end of the tournament which motivates Oranje squad even more according to defender
Nathan Akewho said: I think you could see the fight we have, the whole team is united, everyone wants to do well for him.
"He's such an iconic figure for us and the Netherlands, so for him to do his last tournament, yeah obviously that's going to cross our mind."
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