WORLD CUP: Vertonghen predicts the end of the road for Argentina

Jul 6, 2014 7:19:00 AM

The Belgium defender was not impressed by the South Americans and has little doubt Oranje will make it to the final

EXCLUSIVE
By Stefan Coerts in Brasilia

Belgium left-back Jan Vertonghen believes Argentina's World Cup adventure will come to an end against Netherlands in the semi-finals.

The South Americans beat Marc Wilmots' men 1-0 on Saturday courtesy of Gonzalo Higuain's first-half goal, but Vertonghen was not impressed by Argentina's performance and feels their tournament will soon be over.

"I think Argentina will crash out of the tournament against Netherlands in the semi-finals. I really think so," Vertonghen told Goal.

"Netherlands are very strong and play some good football. They are always calm on the ball and have the quality to eliminate Argentina."

Belgium made it to the quarter-finals for the first time since 1986 in Brazil, yet Vertonghen was disappointed with his side's exit rather than proud of their achievements.

"Of course, there’s a feeling of satisfaction when you make it past the round of 16 after such a long time.

"But I have the feeling that we could have gone further. There is an ever bigger feeling of disappointment than pride."

Toby Alderweireld, meanwhile, felt Wilmots' men put Belgium back on the map after failing to qualify for the 2006 and 2010 World Cup and stressed they should be pleased with their performance.

"We look back at this tournament with a feeling of pride. It had been 12 years since Belgium last played at the World Cup. We have made it to the quarter-finals.

"This was a new experience for all of us and we have shown some good football. We have put Belgium back on the map. We should be satisfied and proud, even if we are a bit disappointed as well to go out here."