Friday, March 29, 2024

Van Gaal dampens World Cup expectation

SoccerNews in General Soccer News 10 Sep 2013

62 Views

Netherlands coach Louis van Gaal has insisted he would be happy just to make it past the “first round” at the FIFA World Cup in 2014.

Van Gaal saw his side secure their spot at Brazil 2014 with a 2-0 win away to Andorra on Tuesday, topping Group D of UEFA’s qualifying section.

The Dutch struggled in the game, only breaking the deadlock in the second half, but Robin van Persie’s double ultimately proved to be enough after Romania were defeated by Turkey in Bucharest.

Netherlands have only failed to win one game in their campaign, Friday’s 2-2 draw against Estonia.

But Van Gaal has set low expectations for his side, insisting that he is not looking for them to replicate 2010’s run to the final in South Africa.

“There is now a World Cup and you have to perform well there,” he said.

“We have a very young team with a few older players, I hope we can get past the first round.”

Match-winner Van Persie echoed his manager’s sentiments, admitting that the side have plenty of work to be done before the tournament.

“We’ve qualified, that’s step one,” the Manchester United man said.

“Now we have to start working toward the World Cup.”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

SoccerNews

Soccernews.com is news blog for soccer with comprehensive coverage of all the major leagues in Europe, as well as MLS in the United States. In addition we offer breaking news for transfers and transfer rumors, ticket sales, betting tips and offers, match previews, and in-depth editorials.

You can follow us on Facebook: Facebook.com/soccernews.com or Twitter: @soccernewsfeed.

SHARE OR COMMENT ON THIS ARTICLE

WE RECOMMEND

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This field is required *

Join the conversation!

or Register

Live Scores

advertisement

Betting Guide Advertisement

advertisement

Become a Writer
More More
Top