Holland star Arjen Robben has given up all hope of qualifying for the 2018 World Cup, saying, ‘It isn’t going to happen’
Netherlands need to beat Sweden 7-0 in their final qualifying game in order to reach the tournament next summer
ARJEN ROBBEN has given up all hope of Holland qualifying for the 2018 World Cup, saying: It isn't going to happen.
The Netherlands now know they need to beat Sweden 7-0 in their final qualifying game in order to reach the tournament in Russia next summer.
Holland need the miracle scoreline after Sweden beat Luxembourg 8-0 on Saturday to push their goal difference to +19.
Meanwhile, Dick Advocaat's side sit three points behind the Swedes, with a far inferior goal difference of +7.
Following Holland's 3-1 win over Belarus on Saturday, Robben said: "This hurts. It is unfortunately part of the sport.
"After Sweden's result you can't do anything else other than play with your chest out, but an 8-0 win in Belarus [was not going to] happen.
"And a 7-0 win at home to Sweden isn't going to happen.
"When you hear [Sweden won] 8-0, that's a big blow."
Meanwhile, boss Advocaat refused to give up hope of a World Cup miracle.
The Dutch chief said: "The reality is that it will be very difficult, but it's not over yet.
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"We have to play another game. It is possible."
Holland will host Sweden on Tuesday at the Amsterdam Arena, having drawn the first game 1-1 in Scandinavia.
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