Netherlands attacking midfielder Wesley Sneijder has admitted that it is crucial for him to use all of his experience throughout the World Cup.

Ahead of their opening match against Spain on Friday evening, Sneijder believes that ensuring morale is high in Brazil is crucial as the Dutch look to continue making improvements following a disappointing Euro 2012 campaign.

"I'm not a captain, but still a leader," the Galatasaray playmaker told reporters. "The team spirit is good, much better than two years ago.

"I will do everything to keep it that way. Because it's important at a major tournament. I know that from experience.

"These are my sixth major finals but I will keep going. You will see me in four years. This is a big week but it's only one game. We need a result against Spain. That's the point."

Friday's match is a repeat of the 2010 final, which Spain won 1-0 thanks to Andres Iniesta's stoppage-time strike.

Written by
Callum Mulvihill