Netherlands-Denmark 2-0
Van Marwijk visibly relieved

Monday, 14 June 2010

Holland manager Bert van Marwijk was visibly relieved when he was asked for his first reaction, after Holland's bleak performance against the Danes. Holland and Denmark had been at par until Poulsen handed Holland the lead with an unfortunate own goal in the 46th minute.

"We had a poor period in the last 15 minutes before the break," Van Marwijk said on Dutch television with a hoarse voice. "Apart from that we were in control for most of the game and gave away few chances. Such a first game at the World Cup isn't easy."

Holland created very little in the first half against a Danish side that was well organised. "Denmark are strong defensively, so it was fortunate that we took the lead so early after the break. They had come forward a bit more and that left us more room. We played better than and could have scored more."

Van Marwijk was happy with the performance of substitute Eljero Elia. "He did well and he is one of the options that we have. You can play him from the start or bring him on later," said Van Marwijk who refused to indicate whether he will replace Van der Vaart with the Hamburg-winger for the game against Japan - an issue that had been brought up by Dutch media a few times in the days before this match.