Late goal gives Netherlands 1-0 win in Slovenia

CELJE, Mar 29 (Reuters) The Netherlands beat Slovenia 1-0 with a goal five minutes from time by Giovanni van Bronckhorst in a Euro 2008 Group G qualifier.

The win puts the Dutch back on top with 14 points, three points ahead of second-placed Romania, who beat Luxembourg 3-0 earlier yesterday. Slovenia are fifth with four points.

The visitors, with Edwin van der Sar back in goal after injury, dominated possession but failed to score until the 85th minute when midfielder Van Bronckhorst found the net.

''At the end it was hectic and when I brought on Danny Koevermans as an extra striker we played worse but then we scored,'' Netherlands coach Marco van Basten told TV-station 10.

''Football can be strange,'' he added.

''I changed my players in several positions because two matches like this in a few days is a heavy load and it worked today. The team was fresh and created at least 10 chances so it was sad that the score was still 0-0 after 80 minutes.'' The Dutch were disappointing up front on Saturday when they played out a goalless draw at home to Romania in Rotterdam.

''None of my central strikers have really been convincing so there is no first choice,'' said Van Basten. ''Until there is several will have a chance.'' Slovenia defended well against a more skilful Dutch side which had 15 shots to the home side's seven.

''The Dutch had more opportunities but I feel my team played well and I think we forced them to give their best,'' said Slovenia coach Matjaz Kek.

''I'm disappointed Slovenia lost points but hope we'll be able to make up the difference in the games ahead.'' REUTERS PDS BST0422