[World Cup] Dutch goalie: Shootout tactic was fair play

RIO DE JANEIRO (AP) ― Netherlands goalkeeper Tim Krul insists he did nothing wrong in confronting Costa Rica’s penalty takers during a World Cup quarterfinal shootout.

Krul’s crucial two saves on Sunday night followed his novel tactic that tested FIFA’s guidelines on fair play. The substitute goalie faced up to opponents at the penalty spot and repeatedly told them he knew where they’d place their shots.

“I don’t think I have done anything wrong,” Krul said at a team news conference. “I haven’t shouted at (them) in an aggressive manner. I haven’t done anything crazy. I just told them I knew where they are going.”

The Dutch team’s 4-3 shootout win after a 0-0 draw set up a semifinal against Argentina.

Krul said he would do the same again if Wednesday’s match goes to a shootout and he again gets substituted in for Jasper Cillessen, who is expected to start in the Dutch goal. “I am trying obviously to get into their heads and it worked,” said Krul, who instantly entered World Cup lore, both as a rare replacement and for his trash talk. “I use everything in my power to make it happen.”

Krul said he learned just before the match that he might be called on in a penalty shootout.