WORLD CUP 2014: Fabio Cannavaro Blasts Disrespectful Louis Van Gaal

Fabio Cannavaro has criticised Netherlands coach Louis Van Gaal’s decision to take off goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen before his side's World Cup quarter-final shoot-out against Costa Rica, insisting the plaudits he is getting are undeserved.

The Oranje boss brought Tim Krul on in place of his starting goalkeeper in the last minute of extra-time in the last-eight tie as he believed the Newcastle United man would be better suited for spot kicks than Ajax's No.1.

Krul then saved two out of five penalties to put his country through - with Van Gaal earning praise in many quarters for the bold decision late in the game - but World Cup 2006 winner Cannavaro had an opposing stance on the topic.

Sergio Ramos Can Win Ballon d'Or Says Fabio Cannavaro

Former Italy and Real Madrid centre-back Fabio Cannavaro says a strong World Cup could secure Sergio Ramos the Ballon d’Or.

Ramos had an excellent campaign as his side claimed the Champions league, scoring a last-minute equaliser to take the Lisbon final against city rivals Atletico to extra-time after a colossal performance in the semi-final thrashing of Bayern Munich.

And the former Inter, Juventus and Real Madrid man believes Ramos can match his achievement in 2006, where he lifted the prize following the Azzurri's World Cup triumph.