From correspondents in Europe, 04:02 PM IST

Arjen Robben is certain to miss the Netherlands' opening game of Euro 2008 with a groin strain while Robin van Persie is doubtful.

Real Madrid star Robben picked up the injury in training Saturday and joins Ryan Babel on the sidelines.

'This is obviously a huge setback for Arjen himself,' said Dutch coach Marco van Basten. 'But also for the team this is a huge blow, as we have already lost Ryan Babel in that position.'

Meanwhile, Van Basten said that while Van Persie took part in training, he was still lacking match fitness following his recovery from a thigh injury.

(Staff Writer, © IANS)