Making light work of the group stage
The Netherlands won two and drew one of their group matches. Despite not being tested, the stats hold in favour of the Dutch side, who have conceded only one goal in the 1-1 draw with Ecuador. Perhaps fans expect a more expansive style to the pragmatic approach employed by Van Gaal.
Van Gaal told a journalist that he was trying to espouse his opinion, but it was incorrect. He believes that the fans will rather be proud the team is progressing to the next round. He continued that he thinks things are not as bad as it looks.
Coady Gakpo, a target for Manchester United, has been the shining light of the Dutch side as he has scored three goals for the Netherlands and is also in the hunt for the top scorer award. Gakpo is the first Dutchman to score in his first three World Cup matches.
Qatar became the first host to lose all three matches, and the only other nation not to make it out of the group stage at a tournament in their own country is South Africa.