Louis van Gaal hails talisman Robin van Persie

Netherlands boss Louis van Gaal has hailed the talismanic qualities of striker Robin van Persie for his World Cup campaign thus far.

The Dutchman bagged a brace in the 5-1 rout of Spain on Friday, before grabbing an equaliser in the thrilling 3-2 win over Australia this afternoon.

Consequently, the Manchester United hitman is level with Germany's Thomas Muller and compatriot Arjen Robben in the race for the golden boot, and Van Gaal says that it is "great" to have the 31-year-old in his ranks.

"Is great to have a striker like Van Persie, he's on three goals already," he told reporters at full time this evening.

"That is a fantastic tally after two games, and he scores very attractive goals which is good for the fans."

Spain's 2-0 defeat to Chile tonight has meant that the Netherlands have already secured their last-16 place with a group game to spare.