Van Basten: We made progress!!

Marco van Basten was satisfied with Oranje’s performance against the weak Thailand side. “I’m happy with the way we played, particularly in view of the circumstances and the heat. I do think we should’ve scored more. But at least we created a lot of chances.”

Van Basten compared this match with the qualification game against Luxembourg, when Oranje won 1-0 in a very tough game. “If you see how we played now, you can tell we improved a lot. We did get a lot of space against Thailand, but it’s always a question mark how the players use that. And they did well.”
With the victory over Thailand, Oranje ended the 10-day training-campaign in Asia. “I liked both games, they were interesting to me,” said the Dutch team manager. “And it was a fun trip, which allowed us to do more things than just play football. It was great for the teamspirit. Now, I hope they have a great holiday now.”
Captain Rafael van der Vaart: “It was hot andhumid, so it was a bit of a problem to keep on firing on all cylinders. I think we did try, but in the second half it was just too hard. We were worn out. I’m happy that the season is behind us now, we all need a break.
Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink scored his first goal as international. The Celtic striker was happy. “At last a goal for Oranje! It may be “only” against Thailand, but still, it does count. I hope there will be more. I think we’re all glad it’s over now. I played 45 minutes but it felt like I played 120 minutes. It was tough in this heat.”