The Oranje were 2-0 up inside 17 minutes thanks to Klaas Jan Huntelaar's double, but they conceded through Mikael Forssell's header two minutes later and were forced to hang on at times.

"We started strongly," Van Bommel told www.onsoranje.nl. "Up until 2-1 we played really well. But then we lost organisation and came under pressure. I think Maarten kept us in the match two, three, four times."

Stekelenburg has not always impressed for his country as Holland have struggled to replace Edwin van der Sar following his retirement from the international scene.

But after some positive performances in the World Cup, where Holland reached the final, the 27-year-old is firmly established as Holland's number one.

And he was a key man as saves from Mika Vayrynen and Forssell in particular kept his side in the lead.

He told De Telegraaf: "You do not expect to be called into action so often against Finland, but if the opponent gets opportunities you just have to deal with them.

"I'm very confident. I try to keep calm and that works fine."

Van Bommel was under no illusion his side were far from their best.

But after back-to-back wins against San Marino and Finland to start their Group E campaign, he is reasonably satisfied.

"We should just be happy that we have six points after so little preparation," he said.

"I know it's not an excuse but some guys have only played two games.

"It's a shame for the public, here and at home."