Arjen Robben apologised for diving in Holland’s 2-1 victory over Mexico, but insisted the decisive incident “was a penalty.”
Arjen Robben apologised for diving in Holland’s 2-1 victory over Mexico, but insisted the decisive incident “was a penalty.”
The Dutch midfielder had several shouts for a spot-kick during the World Cup Round of 16 tie in Fortaleza and earned the winning penalty deep into stoppages.
“I must apologise,” Robben told Dutch media NOS after the final whistle.
“The one at the end was a penalty, but the other one was a dive in the first half. I shouldn’t be doing that.”
The Bayern Munich man handed over the spot-kick duties to substitute Klaas-Jan Huntelaar.
“Usually I am comfortable with taking a penalty, but this time I was the one tackled. I felt sure Huntelaar would make the most of it.
“It was his moment, he deserved this. I was almost crying from the emotions. We want to win this, to fight together as a team. I am so proud.”