Argentina defender Martin Demichelis believes the only way to try and stop the in-form Arjen Robben in Wednesday’s World Cup semi-final is by adopting a physical approach.
Robben has netted three times and provided one assist during Holland’s march to the last four in Brazil and they are 4.80 to go on and win the tournament.
Demichelis, who played with Robben and under Holland boss Louis van Gaal at Bayern Munich, insists the best approach to stop the winger is to get in his face and allow him no room.
Demichelis said: “We have to be aggressive, to show the passion of the Argentinian players to the Dutch – and especially to Robben.
“He doesn’t like physical contact, so you have to make him feel it and get under his skin. He is a phenomenon and it is vital to know which way he goes. But he’s not got much edge, he’s not a fighter.
“Therefore you have to attack him because the more you stand off, the nearer to the goal you take him and the less margin of error you have.”
The Manchester City man revealed he has nothing but respect for Van Gaal and insists he learned a lot during his time under him at the Bavarian outfit.
He added: “I was irritated [when left out of the side] but I always recognised he was the best football-wise, for the concepts he has and how he imposes them on a team. He has shown that in this World Cup.
“He has a real determination in thinking about the team and potential consequences. I learned a lot from Van Gaal.”
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