Sneijder talks tough for Turkey match

KATWIJK – Anadolu Agency

Sneijder attends a training session in Katwijk on March 25, 2015 ahead of the Euro 2016 group A qualifying match between Netherlands and Turkey. AFP Photo

Dutch midfielder and captain Wesley Sneijder says the Netherlands want a win against Turkey in their UEFA Euro 2016 qualification match in Amsterdam on March 28, despite the squad being dogged by injuries.

The Galatasaray star told Anadolu Agency they will try to do their best against Turkey despite the absence of two of the squad’s regulars, Arjen Robben and Robin van Persie.

Sneijder added the absence of the two stars will make him take additional responsibilities.

“The match will be absolutely tough but we have great confidence to win and we want to win,” Sneijder said.

“We will make a big effort so that the absence of the two players [Robben and van Persie] will not affect us negatively and cause a disadvantage. The importance of the two players is known,” he said.
“We are a very good team and we will not disappoint our fans. I am sure that those who will play in place of them will carry out their duty in the best way,” added Sneijder.

Sneijder said Turkey is better than Group A rivals Latvia, emphasizing playing at home is an important advantage for the Netherlands.

The Galatasaray ace said they will pressure Turkey during the game.

Sneijder said Turkey could be dangerous while they possess the ball. “We should make efforts to avoid it. This match is fairly important for Turkey too. In the case that they lose the match, everything will be over for them,” he said.

“But we should not lose the match as well. So we will play to win.”

Sneijder also said playing against his teammates at Galatasaray would be a very special feeling for him.
The Netherlands will host Turkey in the Group A match at Amsterdam Arena at 8:45 p.m. on March 28.

Having collected four points so far in Group A, Turkey is in a critical situation in the group, which is led by the Czech Republic with 12 points. The Netherlands have six points and are in third place.