World Cup 2022: Netherlands boss Louis van Gaal tells critical journalist to 'go home'

World Cup 2022 has been full of surprises so far – but Louis van Gaal has remained true to form, giving one critical reporter a piece of his mind.

The Netherlands head coach showed his famously sharp tongue after Tuesday's 2-0 win over Qatar – which saw the Dutch advance to the last 16 as Group A winners – with some strong words for a journalist who took issue with his style of football.

Told that watching his side was like "grinding teeth", Van Gaal responded:

"I think you have a different perspective on football than I have. Why don't you write it down that you think it's terribly boring and you're going home tomorrow?"

Van Gaal – who is in his first stint as manager of his country and will step down after the World Cup – has already had quite an eventful time in press conference at Qatar 2022.

Following the Oranje's 2-0 victory against Senegal in their tournament opener, the 71-year-old rewarded a Senegalese journalist with a hug for expressing his admiration for the legendary coach.

He has also remained insistent that the Netherlands – who, despite the individual brilliance of Cody Gakpo, who scored in all three group games, have flattered to deceive – can win the competition. They face the USA in the last 16 on Saturday.