Robben: Germany meeting ´make or break´

Netherlands attacker Arjen Robben says his team’s clash against Germany is make or break for their Euro 2012 campaign.

Having lost their opening Group B game to Denmark 1-0 on Saturday, the Dutch need a positive result from their second match or risk suffering elimination.

Robben, 28, is well aware of the seriousness of the game but is remaining optimistic about his side’s chances against Joachim Loew’s men.

“Against Germany it is make or break,” he told AD.nl.

“But we are still confident. We will, can and should win. If that happens, everything will be good and we can rise again.”

In a separate interview with De Telegraaf, Robben praised Wednesday’s opponents: “They were third at the World Cup and the team are still young, fresh and fit. The Germans are always strong physically, and have excellent stamina.

“In addition the current team possess a lot of creativity. And they had a good start with a win against Portugal.”

The Bayern Munich winger has suffered much heartache on the big stage in recent times, including defeats in the 2010 World Cup final and in two Champions League finals.

However, Robben remained adamant those experiences would not weigh him down and only served to make him appreciate any future glory.

“You can make a big talking point out of it, but this is how the facts are. But if you do not play, you cannot lose them.

“I do not carry it with me, but it does obviously hurt if you do not succeed in the two largest prizes out there. I was so close. The last one against Chelsea (2011/12 Champions League final) was absurd.

“The first big title that I’ll win now or in the future will be 10 times sweeter.”