Hiddink to stick with attacking ethos

The Dutch produced an attacking masterclass in the group stages, scoring a total of nine goals in convincing wins over France, Italy and Romania to top the 'Group of Death' in some style.

He has urged his team to go for the jugular against his fellow countrymen, saying: "People like to see a more attacking game. The Dutch like to attack, to have the initiative and control, and be dominant. But the Russian team has changed a lot, not just in personnel but also in the way we play. We now try to install the kind of play where people love to come and watch us."

He added: "We have made some progress and we are now meeting a giant. But our approach won't be different."

Russia, who are set to be unchanged from the team that started the 2-0 win over Sweden on Wednesday, have looked sprightly in attack themselves.

The return from suspension of Andrei Arshavin, the Zenit St Petersburg playmaker, will help them even more in that department and he was superb against the Swedes in his first game of the tournament.

But they have to find a way past Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar, who has been in excellent form between the posts for the Dutch.

Hiddink, who gave Van der Sar his international debut when Holland boss in the mid-90s, cannot praise the 37-year-old highly enough.

"I know a lot of their players, having worked with them in the national team or at club level," he said. "We have seen Van Der Sar has had a tremendous career. This recent season was another highlight for him (he won the Barclays Premier League-Champions League double with United).

"He is the best goalkeeper in Holland, and a very responsible and intelligent man. I have enjoyed watching his performances and I will continue to, except this one."