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.
“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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