Serb defence is tough to crack, says van Nistelrooy

FREIBURG, Germany, June 7 (Reuters) Dutch striker Ruud van Nistelrooy says Serbia&Montenegro's defence are likely to prove tough to crack in their opening World Cup match in Leipzig on Sunday.

''They conceded only one goal in qualification, away against Spain, and that says a lot,'' van Nistelrooy told reporters today.

''They are also well organised as a team and have several well-equipped players.'' The 29-year-old is pleased with the form his country have shown in their warm-up matches.

''We are doing well and have made a lot of progress, although it is necessary to keep improving,'' said van Nistelrooy.

''We had some good phases during the three last matches but they should have lasted longer. Sunday is the moment we have to do it for 90 minutes.'' The lethal poacher is one of the favourites to be the World Cup's top scorer but said there was no question who was the most proficient player in the finals.

''Ronaldinho is by far the best player in the world and if he displays his normal form he will be the best in this tournament,'' said van Nistelrooy.

The Dutch team's other Group C opponents are Argentina and Ivory Coast.

REUTERS DH BST2010