The biggest shock of last night’s qualifiers was the news that the Netherlands, World Cup finalists in 2010, will not take part in Euro 2016.
A 3-2 defeat to the Czech Republic last night meant the Dutch failed to even secure a play-off place.
To make matters worse (or funnier, depending on your point of view) the third Czech score was a truly unbelievable own goal from Robin Van Persie.
The former Arsenal and Manchester United player headed into his own net to finish off his country’s hopes of participation in the Euros next summer.
It is their first time missing a major tournament since the World Cup in 2002 and football fans were equal parts stunned and amused.
The Netherlands. pic.twitter.com/kmrKLERwmD
— Transfer Related (@TransferRelated) October 13, 2015
Van Baste & Nistelrooy are both in Holland's bench (coaching staff) pic.twitter.com/wAIPwhWTFE
— Troll Football (@Troll__Football) October 13, 2015
Robin Van Persie is brought on to get a goal against the Czechs & rescue their #EURO2016 hopes. He delivers! With an own goal. D'oh! #exit
— Des Kelly (@DesKellyBTS) October 13, 2015
Robin van Persie has just scored a hugely entertaining own goal to make it 0-3 to the Czechs, who are down to ten men #embarrassing
— The Football Ramble (@FootballRamble) October 13, 2015
1988 ✅ 1992 ✅ 1996 ✅ 2000 ✅ 2004 ✅ 2008 ✅ 2012 ✅ 2016 ❌ pic.twitter.com/KwacO4kLgS
— bet365 (@bet365) October 13, 2015