FIFA World Cup Live: Netherlands vs Argentina (Source: AP)

Netherlands take on Argentina in their semifinal clash at the Arena Corinthians, Sao Paulo on Thursday. (Full Coverage: FIFA World Cup 2014)

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BRIEF PREVIEW

Win or lose Wednesday’s semifinal against Argentina, Netherlands coach Louis van Gaal will leave the World Cup having firmly reinforced his reputation as a master tactician.

The manager in the rival dug-out, Alejandro Sabella has proved spectics wrong.

When he was handed the task of reviving Argentina’s fortunes after a poor campaign at the 2011 Copa America, not everyone in his homeland was convinced he was the right man.

“I don’t know why they chose him,” said the country’s legendary 1978 World Cup-winning coach Cesar Menotti. “I don’t know what his project is.”

Manchester United fans must be feeling on excellent terms with themselves at the prospect of seeing the distinctive Van Gaal’s presence filling the Old Trafford dugout in a few weeks time.

But before he swops his orange tie for red to direct his prodigious grey matter to reviving United’s fortunes, van Gaal has unfinished business in Brazil. (Read More: Dutch master-tactician will have to outwit Argentine magician)

EXPRESS AT FIFA WC

Three unusual sounds rang across the Arena Fonte Nova in Salvador during the dregs of extra-time in the Holland-Costa Rica quarterfinal. First was the clatter of Wesley Sneijder’s shot against the crossbar.

The Holland number 10 hardly ever misses. But last Saturday, the upright had held him back on three separate occasions. Then came a loud sigh, pushed out from the depths of Sneijder’s lungs.

And finally, a collective gasp from the Dutch supporters seated behind that stubborn goalpost, as Sneijder buried his face in the embracing arms of current captain and once mortal enemy, Robin van Persie.

Four years in football is a long time. But in Sneijder’s case, it will seem more like an eternity. (Read More: The second chance)