The Netherlands coach Louis van Gaal was pleased after his side beat Chile 2-0 in the final match of Group B to progress into the next round of the World Cup as group winners.
The coach took much credit after the game for bringing on Leroy Fer and Memphis Depay, both of whom scored for the Oranje in what was a tactical and close-fought match.
“It was a match of the highest quality,” said van Gaal in his post-match comments according to FIFA.
“We limited Chile to a handful of opportunities, we neutralised them extremely effectively – and particularly in the second half we created more chances.”
“We did have to change our style today – and I will always pick a system and a strategy that will help us win.
“However, we’re not perfect – in possession we still need to improve, but I do think we’re very good without the ball.
“As for my substitutions, they are down knowledge of the players and the opposition, but their impact is down to luck!”
Van Gaal also reserved special praise for Dirk Kuyt who played as a sort of full-back”
“Dirk has trained five weeks to play there, that pleases me a lot.”
