Dutch can survive without Robben - Van Basten

0 Comments | AFP, June, 2008

BERNE, Switzerland (AFP) — Holland can survive their opening "Group of Death" test against world champions Italy in Berne on Monday without injured wideman Arjen Robben, coach Marco van Basten insisted Sunday.

The Dutch are out to emulate their 1988 compatriots and land the title - Van Basten was out almost as wide as Robben habitually plays when he cracked home a stunning goal in the final against the former Soviet Union - and the coach insisted his winger's groin strain was not the end of the world.

"Robben is a bit better and ran today (but) he will be out for seven to ten days," said Van Basten.

"He's an important player, especially when he is on form and we will really miss him against Italy. But we came through a portion of the qualifiers without him...