The Van Gaal golden touch

HOLLAND v COSTA RICA

(Salvador, Saturday, 5pm)

Manchester United fans will have been impressed by what they gave seen from Dutch coach Louis van Gaal so far.

Tactical understanding has always been a perceived strength of Van Gaal but the World Cup has reaffirmed that and given United fans huge optimism for the future.

Next up for him and his team, who, remember, could still boast performance of the tournament with the 5-1 hammering of Spain in the first round of games, are underdogs Costa Rica.

Holland are overwhelming favourites. Former international striker Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink said: “Van Gaal has made a team with young players and players who want to play for each other.

“On paper we should win but as we all know it’s not that easy.” 

Prediction: Holland 2-0 Costa Rica