Former Costa Rica captain Bryan Ruiz has revealed that his compatriots still harbor deep resentment toward retired Netherlands goalkeeper Tim Krul.
The animosity stems from Krul's psychological tactics during the iconic 2014 World Cup quarterfinal penalty shootout in Brazil.
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Ruiz made the comments in a Dutch television broadcast on June 7, 2026.
He missed Costa Rica's second penalty in that shootout, which defined the tournament for his nation.
Van Gaal's Masterstroke
The strategic substitution by Louis van Gaal remains legendary twelve years later. Krul replaced starting goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen specifically for the shootout after a scoreless draw.
Krul successfully saved two penalties, securing a semifinal spot for the Netherlands. The tactical decision was finalized in absolute secrecy the night before the match.
Dutch assistant coach Danny Blind said Van Gaal believed Cillessen lacked the necessary hardness while Krul possessed the required bravado.
Van Gaal explained that provocation is a coachable skill, citing a previous group stage penalty against Australia where Cillessen dove too early as a turning point.
Krul remembered the high-pressure moment vividly, detailing the physical and verbal tactics he used to disrupt Costa Rican penalty takers.
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He admitted his legs were shaking during the incident.
Van Gaal expressed regret over the subsequent semifinal shootout loss against Argentina. He could not reuse Krul because he had already exhausted his final substitution on an attacker.
"I thought we could win that match in extra time," Van Gaal said.
The 74-year-old former manager is currently recovering from prostate cancer and serves in an advisory role for Ajax.
Ruiz noted that the shootout has become a permanent fixture of World Cup history.
He currently works as a football coach in his home country after retiring in early 2023.
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Krul is studying at Portsmouth University to become a technical director after finishing his playing career at Luton Town last year.
