Sneijder: I have had to make sacrifices for Netherlands record

Wesley Sneijder was delighted to become Netherlands’ most-capped played in the 5-0 World Cup qualification win over Luxembourg, but was quick to stress he has had to make his fair share of sacrifices along the way.

The 33-year-old made his 131st appearance for Oranje in Rotterdam on Friday, dethroning former goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar.

And Sneijder marked the occasion with a fine outing and a goal as the Dutch moved into third place in Group A, three points behind joint-leaders Sweden and France.

“I have played 131 games for Oranje now. That is a magic number for me from here on,” Sneijder told reporters.

“It is absolutely fantastic to have become Netherlands’ most-capped player. I have always worked hard for this and have made a lot of sacrifices to get here. So it is a really special feeling, particularly to do it on my birthday.

“Plus I scored and we won, so it is fair to say I am a happy man.”

On your 33rd birthday you celebrate with ,victory, points and your 131st cap for
Tonight was your night @sneijder101010 #nedlux pic.twitter.com/iHByG69KAI

— Jeremain Lens (@jeremainlens) June 9, 2017

There was some bad news for Sneijder, though, as Netherlands’ rival for second place in their group Sweden somewhat surprisingly beat France 2-1 after a stoppage-time howler from Hugo Lloris.

“Sweden’s win over France does not help us,” he added.

“It is going to be difficult to qualify for the World Cup. On the other hand, first place in our group is an option again.”