Louis van Gaal: Nigel de Jong can play if he responds well to today's training

"The miracle can come true."

That's how Dutch coach Louis van Gaal described Nigel de Jong's incredible recovery from a groin tear that could see him suit up for the Netherlands on Wednesday in the side's semi-final match against Argentina.

"I don't know how it is with him," van Gaal said. "He tested it today in practice. Now, we'll have to wait and see how his groin reacts tomorrow. When you come back quickly from an injury, there is always a reaction. If that response is positive, then he can play football, and the miracle can come true."

The central defensive midfielder left the Netherlands Round of 16 match against Mexico in the early-going after feeling pain in his groin area. Tests revealed a small tear that was supposed to keep him sidelined for two to four weeks. Despite the prognosis, de Jong's speedy recovery allowed him to train with the rest of the team the last two days in Rio and Sao Paulo.

If he feels no ill effects from practice, he'll be expected to fill a much needed role with his physical presence against Argentina.