Arjen Robben: Now bring on the Germans

Arjen Robben headed the decisive goal in Holland's 3-2 victory over Uruguay
10 April 2012

Arjen Robben wants to face Germany in the World Cup Final so he can silence his Bayern Munich team-mates.

The former Chelsea winger headed the decisive goal in Holland's 3-2 victory over Uruguay last night and is eagerly awaiting the outcome of the other semi-final between Germany and Spain.

Robben knows whoever wins tonight will provide a tough test for Holland on Sunday but he has an extra incentive to play Joachim Low's side.

He said: "Spain and Germany are great footballing nations. If Germany are our next opponent, I'll be even more motivated. I can't afford to lose against them, because my team-mates at Bayern will make fun of me all season."

Robben and his Bayern colleagues experienced heartbreak in May when they lost the Champions League Final to Inter Milan.

Having missed out on the biggest prize in club football, the 26-year-old is determined to make history by helping Holland win their first World Cup.

Robben said: "I recently lost a big final and I won't let this happen again. This Dutch team are simply a great squad. We need only one more victory now. We're almost there. We're full of confidence at the moment."

Robin van Persie agrees with Robben and says the way Holland dealt with Uruguay — who had only conceded two goals in their run to the last four — augurs well for the showdown at Johannesburg's Soccer City.

The Arsenal striker said: "Reaching the final gives me goose bumps. We knew Uruguay had a great team and that it wouldn't be easy. They were never going to give up until the referee blew for full- time.

"We beat Uruguay with some nice attacking play. We scored three good goals and fought extremely hard. This is like a dream a come true. It doesn't really matter whether we play Spain or Germany. However, I have a feeling it will be the Germans."

If it is then the match will be a repeat of the 1974 final, when Holland's Total Football team lost 2-1.

Dutch coach Bert van Marwijk said: "I don't think in terms of revenge. I remember that match very well — we played a wonderful game but lost it when we should have won. It's just great we are back in a final."

Diego Forlan equalised for Uruguay but was inconsolable after a thigh injury forced him off with six minutes to go. The striker said: "I have a bitter taste because there were more difficult games than this. I feel useless because I was not in a good enough physical state to perform at my best."

Meanwhile, Low has defended his captain Philipp Lahm ahead of tonight's game.

The Bayern Munich defender said he wanted to stay as Germany skipper when the injured Michael Ballack returns after the tournament.

Low said: "That does not bother us at all. He spoke honestly about what he thinks. He has been enjoying the added responsibility and has done his job in an exemplary fashion. He also knows it is up to the coach to decide."

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