Louis Van Gaal admits the Netherlands have surprised their critics ahead of the quarter-final with Costa Rica.

It kicks off at 21.00 UK time (20.00 GMT) in Salvador de Bahia and Holland are undoubtedly the favourites to progress in this World Cup.

“Well, I may have some news for you – the Dutch media did not expect that we would get this far either,” smiled the tactician in his Press conference.

Louis Van Gaal admits the Netherlands have surprised their critics ahead of the quarter-final with Costa Rica.

It kicks off at 21.00 UK time (20.00 GMT) in Salvador de Bahia and Holland are undoubtedly the favourites to progress in this World Cup.

“Well, I may have some news for you – the Dutch media did not expect that we would get this far either,” smiled the tactician in his Press conference.

“Everything we are achieving now should be fantastic for the Dutch media, but that is not the issue. The issue is our own objectives, our goal.

“Our goal has always been to become world champions and we have already said we are a team which is very difficult to beat.

“We’re not a great team, but a team which is difficult to beat. So far we have shown that and I hope we can continue that up to and including the Final.

“That Costa Rica are considered to be a less strong team, that is by the media. That is not our words, we are not saying that.”

Holland have already disposed of Spain, Chile and a last-gasp Round of 16 fightback to knock out Mexico.

They’ve also shown a team spirit and unity that is unusual for the Oranje, considering previous fiery situations.

“We have always said since the preparation for this World Cup that it will not be the best or most fantastic team that is going to win, but the best 23 players will win this,” continued Van Gaal.

“We all have one goal, we are all supporting each other, complementing each other. That's what the Dutch team is, all 23 players.

“We’ve been able to achieve outstanding results and this is what we see. That will remain for the entire tournament, even if we lose. The Dutch team will fight right to the very last minute to become world champions.”

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