Dutch head coach Louis van Gaal received high praise from former Feyenoord player Johan Boskamp after the Netherlands guided his side to the perfect start in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Voetbalkrant reports.
The Netherlands opened the World Cup with a 2-0 win against Senegal despite a below-par performance. However, a number of tactical changes from van Gaal allowed Cody Gakpo and Davy Klaassen score late into the match.
Speaking to the press, Boskamp was surprised by some of van Gaal’s squad decision going into their Group A opener against the African Cup of Nations winners but admitted he got it right.
He said: “Louis’ most surprising choice was in goal: Andries Noppert.
“Actually, it’s too crazy for words that Van Gaal left an experienced international like Cillessen at home for three goalkeepers who haven’t even played 10 international games together. My first reaction was ‘What’s he doing now?!’, but in the end he might get his way again.”
However, despite the praise, Boskamp has reservations over the head coach’s optimism about winning the World Cup in Qatar.
He added: “What I cannot agree with Van Gaal on for now is that the Dutch team is among the favourites to win the World Cup. Way too early.”
GBeNeFN | Tom Phillips
