In his second game in charge, van Marwijk's men held the Colombians in a plucky performance at Craven Cottage.

The result came four days after the 4-1 defeat to Oslo.

"We know Colombia is a very good team, one of the best in the world," the Dutchman said.

"They can bring three teams on the same level. We saw Friday last week against France, when you win in France 3-2 you are a very good team. I think today we had a very good plan and we could already see the way we want to play, this is a beginning.

"We played very well in the first half. In the second half it became more difficult because of the qualities of Colombia. But I think in the second half we also had good character to bring the 0-0 tonight.

"In Oslo we wanted to do the same, but then we only had one normal training. Now we know each other a few days longer and we trained a few days more I think you can see the players are beginning to understand  more of what we want and how we want to play. 

"They like to play that way. The best combination is that you play in the way that fits the players and also the coach, you could see it especially in the first half. It must become better and better but this is a good start."

A relieved-looking Van Marwijk joked that debutant Danny Vukovic gave the penalty away in the second half on purpose.

"He forced a penalty and he saved it," he said.

"I spoke already to him, in the last two days we did a few penalties after the training, so I said you did it on purpose. But I am happy that he held the penalty."