Netherlands is in a new crisis, as has happened in the past the Orange team will be absent in Russia for the 2018 World Cup despite their 2-0 win against Sweden on Tuesday in Amsterdam.
Netherlands captain Arjen Robben and his teammates had to win by seven goals to take second place and reach the roadblocks, however it was not enough. It is a new disaster for the Oranje team after missing at the Euro 2016 in France.
Left behind the number of goal, the Dick Advocaat’ side must be satisfied at 3rd place in the Group A table standings behind France and Sweden.
Robben on the other hand announced to end his international career. He decided to retire at the age of 33, after 96 appearances and 37 goals since started in selection in April 2003.
“It’s a good time to pass to the torch to the next generation. It was an emotional night. I knew before the game it was going to be my last and it was not easy” Netherlands captain Robben said after the match.
“On the other hand I wanted to enjoy it but I wanted to focus on the game because I wanted to say goodbye with a very good match.
“I’m happy I could play in the way I did and score two goals and win the game. That was the only thing we could do.
“I am very proud and honoured at my six tournaments. The most beautiful moments for me were the World Cups of 2010 and 2014, in which we were really a close team and a close group. But there are many beautiful moments, forteen years is a long time.” Robben added.
Arjen Robben announces international retirements. (Source:www.goal.com)
The Ducth manager, Advocaat, reacted on Robben’s decision to retire form his national team. He said the captain is one of the best players in the world but it will be bad news for the Dutch fans.
“Robben is still one of the best players in the world and he will still do his job for the club.” Advocaat said to media.
“But this is really a lost for the Dutch national team because he is a quality player we will miss him,” former Russia manager added.
