Arjen Robben still felt regrets with a bronze medal for the Netherlands and was furious with the referee.
He earned a penalty just 85 seconds into the 3-0 victory over Brazil, but Thiago Silva only received a booking, though the foul appeared to be outside the box anyway.
Arjen Robben still felt regrets with a bronze medal for the Netherlands and was furious with the referee.
He earned a penalty just 85 seconds into the 3-0 victory over Brazil, but Thiago Silva only received a booking, though the foul appeared to be outside the box anyway.
“That was really bad,” he told NOS. “That was a straight red. It really annoys the life out of me, but that’s what happens at a World Cup.
“This is a nice way to finish the World Cup with a win. It helps wash away a little of the bitterness, but disappointment continues to be the dominating sensation.
“We gave everything and I am so very proud. It’s a pleasure to work with all these players. I just feel we deserved to be in the Final.
“At least we and everyone in the Netherlands can enjoy this World Cup bronze medal.”
Holland technically finished the tournament unbeaten, as they only went out to Argentina in the semi-final on penalties.
The Dutch are the fourth team to have achieved this after seven games and still failed to win the World Cup.
The others were Brazil in 1978, Italy in 1990 and France in 2006.
This was also Louis Van Gaal’s last game in charge of Holland before going to Manchester United and Robben revealed their jokey conversation.
“I have a special bond with him going back to Bayern Munich. He is the most important Coach of my career.
“He said I could always come to Manchester United! That’s not an option, though. I stay at Bayern Munich.”