Netherlands will not play in the 2018 World Cup in Russia

Netherlands will not play in the 2018 World Cup in Russia despite the 2-0 victory obtained in the last European qualifier against Sweden.

The Dutch team needed a victory with a seven-goal difference against the Swedes in the match played at the Amsterdam Arena. Although their fans were excited with the goals scored by Arjen Robben in the first half, they did not have enough time in the last 45 minutes to achieve the feat.

The last time Netherlands failed to qualify for a World Cup was in 2001, when they were eliminated from the tournament held in South Korea and Japan. Since then, their performances in Germany, South Africa, and Brazil had been remarkable, reaching the Round of 16, a runner-up position, and a third place, respectively.

The elimination of the Dutch team could also mean that experienced players like Robben or goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg will not play in another World Cup, as they could be retired from professional football by Qatar 2022.