Robben plans to break the final 'jinx'

Netherlands winger Arjen Robben is desperate to break the ‘final jinx’ and win Euro 2012 for his country.

Robben has been accused of failing under pressure in the finals of important tournaments. The 28-year-old missed a plethora of chances for the Dutch against Spain in the final of 2010 FIFA World Cup that the La Roja won in the second half of extra time, courtesy an Andres Iniesta goal.

The Bayern Munich player fumbled once again in this season’s Champions League final against Chelsea and failed to convert a penalty in the extra-time. Chelsea eventually won the match on penalties. Robben said:

“I was very excited about the end of the season with Bayern, but things didn’t turn out well. The Champions League final was incredible and that will leave a mark in my head. The penalty saved by Petr Cech will always be with me, but I hope things go better with Netherlands at Euro 2012. The disappointment with Bayern will always be there too, but I dream of ending the season well at the Euros.”

The 5-2 defeat against Borussia Dortmund in the final of German Cup was another defeat the winger would like to forget. He added:

“I don’t like it one bit that people say I fail in finals, but that is something which has followed me in recent times. I now hope to break that streak at Euro 2012. The pressure doesn’t affect me – not now or in any of the teams I have played for. If I have to take a penalty and the coach wants me to take one, I will do it without any fear. I am a professional and I have to move on.”

Netherlands are in Group B alongside Portugal, Germany and Denmark. The Oranje begin their campaign against Denmark on June 9, before taking on Germany four days later, and Portugal on June 17.