Van man vows to deliver

HOLLAND hitman Robin van Persie lit the touch paper

for today's first quarter-final clash by taunting

opponents Brazil: Our players are better than yours.

The Samba stars are said to have the best squad in South Africa.

And the bookies make them favourites to lift the trophy for a sixth time on Sunday week.

You might think that would leave the Dutch dreading a last-eight clash with Dunga's superstars.

But Arsenal striker Van Persie insists his national team-mates are not running scared.

He said: "This is the game that we wanted, this is what it's all about. There will not be a big difference.

"If you compare all the players of both teams, then I think we have more top-level players. I'm sure Brazil are not better than us.

"Of course, we have to improve our game. But every match is a new adventure, every match has to be better.

"We are not allowed to think about what we've already achieved. If we do that, it's over."

And Van Persie is not the only Dutchman confident of beating the Brazilians in Port Elizabeth.

Midfielder Wesley Sneijder said: "I have watched some video-images alone in my room. Believe me, we can beat the Brazilians."

And Dirk Kuyt admits he is not packing his bags just yet. The Liverpool star said: "Going home after this game is not an option.

"In previous tournaments I packed some bags before a big game like this.

"I did it because I was not sure that I would be back in the hotel afterwards.

"Why am I so sure now? Because of all the experience we have gained.

"For a lot of players this is the third big tournament in a row. If we want something, now is the time.

"We are three victories away from the winning the World Cup. How many times do you get a chance like this?

"The whole team are convinced we'll get through."

The wave of confidence is not only flowing through Bert van Marwijk's squad. Dutch legend Johan Cruyff has already rubbished today's opponents, saying he would not pay to watch the current crop of Brazilians.

But Dunga hit back, saying: "I am sure Cruyff is not going to pay for the ticket, so he can watch it if he wants to.

"My grandfather said in his day football was excellent. My father said that, I say that and I'm sure my son and my grandson are going to say exactly the same, that in their day the football was very good, that the players could dribble magnificently and head magnificently.

"We know world-class players are always outstanding at any time."