Dutch approach might not please purists but has delivered

No playing for kicks: Holland’s Daley Blind in a duel for the ball with Qatar’s Hassan Al-Haydos at the Al Bayt Stadium. — AP

USUALLY the Dutch like their football delivered in style and resplendent with clever tactics but their veteran coach Louis van Gaal has taught them to be practical.

Holland’s progress into the knockout phase of the World Cup in Qatar has come with little charisma or conviction but with the job done and top place in Group A secured.