Chelsea's new signing has been an inspiration for Holland this month, guiding them to the last four - where they play hosts Portugal on Wednesday.

But it was a close-run thing for the Dutch because, like England, they have a dread of penalty shoot-outs, having been knocked out of major tournaments on penalties in 1992, 1996, 1998 and 2000.

So when Saturday's quarter-final against Sweden ended 0-0 after extra time, they were not favourites to go through.

But Robben and his teammates showed great character to win the shoot-out 5-4 - with the Chelsea winger scoring the winning kick.

Robben said: "I was not nervous, I just went up and took it, But I have to admit it was difficult, especially after all the nightmares Holland have had with penalties in the past. But it has to be your turn sometime and we never gave up.

"But to be honest, penalty shoot-outs are a lottery. England played a good tournament but didn't go through and for me that was a pity because I wanted to play against them in the semi-final.

"That was a shame but now I will have to wait until next season before I meet some of the Chelsea players and I will be playing with them rather than against them."

Going through on penalties could turn out to be a positive thing for Holland, because it seems to have lifted a load off their shoulders and brought players together.

Robben said: "It's good for the team spirit and we're getting stronger because we nearly went out in the group stage and then we came through on penalties so it makes you stronger mentally.

"I think we are playing with confidence now, getting stronger and gelling together.

"Even the guys who are not playing are trying to help the team which means we are together. My own form is good because I'm fully fit again after my knee injury. And I can't wait to take on Portugal."