Former Bafana Bafana skipper, Steven Pienaar, says he hopes to see Holland, the country in which he played some of his best football with Ajax Amsterdam, going on to win the FIFA World Cup.

The Everton player is in South Africa during the off season in England.

“When a World Cup is here you want to watch every game… that’s just how it is as a football fan. It’s part and parcel of being a football fan, so obviously I’m very excited. I wished all my teammates well, the ones who are playing, but I really want Holland to win it,” Pienaar told Soccer Laduma.

“Sometimes you start a tournament well and finish poorly, but I hope they (Holland) can continue. Some people hadn’t given them a chance this year, but after the performance against Spain they’re back in the spotlight again.

“It’s very disappointing not to have your own country in the World Cup, but hopefully the next time the team will be there with the group of youngsters coming up.

“I’m hopeful that they’ll qualify for the next one. There are a lot of good young players coming through, many of whom are playing in Europe, and that’s a big plus point.”

The Netherlands booked their last 16 berth after a scintillating 3-2 win over Australia last night.