Netherlands-Croatia – G. Hiddink: “I am very happy that the public appreciated our efforts”

“I’m very disappointed. We would have liked to finish the World Cup without a single defeat. It is a pity we lost, because we played tonight just like we have throughout the entire tournament. We really wanted the third place, but we were defeated by the counter-attack. We must improve our tactical approach because we cannot afford to lose from a counter-attack in competitions of such prestige. I brought in Marc OVERMARS (14) as a third striker but that simply wasn’t enough. He is a very capable player and it is unfortunate we haven’t been able to take advantage of his talents more often.

“We have often been told that we played a very attractive football during the tournament. I am very happy that the public appreciated our efforts. Joseph BLATTER and Michel PLATINI also told me that they were impressed with our play. I am touched by such a compliment. I think we have had an exceptional World Cup. It certainly provided our players with an unforgettable experience.”