“We weren’t good” — Louis van Gaal reacts to Netherlands 1-1 draw vs Ecuador

The Netherlands coach Louis van Gaal has agreed that his side wasn’t ‘good’ against Ecuador as both countries were forced to share the spoils in Qatar.

The Dutch side headed into the game as the favourites and Van Gaal had earlier predicted that his side would come out on top, although he admitted the game wouldn’t be easy.

However, nearly the opposite happened as Ecuador were somewhat the better side after the game ended in a draw.

Cody Gakpo opened the scoring in the first half but Enner Valencia scored the equaliser in the second half.

The Ecuadorians had better chances of getting the second goal but the Netherlands’ backline was solid.

After the final whistle, Van Gaal said: “Despite the fact that we weren’t good, we barely gave any chances away. I saw that Ecuador had 14 goal attempts, the ball that hit the bar and the goal.

Van Gaal was asked if he still thinks the Netherlands can still win the Qatar World Cup, the Dutchman said: “In the Nations League we showed that we can be good on the ball.

“These are just different type of opponents. Even stronger opponents upcoming? Yes but the way they play is more of the same style as we do.

“I am not very sad. We are unbeaten for 18 games.”