Russia playmaker Andrei Arshavin has described quarter-final opponents Holland as the best side at Euro 2008.
The Zenit St Petersburg player was speaking ahead of Saturday’s showdown between the two countries, a game he expects to be Russia’s toughest task to date.
“If we didn’t have to play Holland, we would feel much better, because I think they are the best side here,” he said.
“But fate has it that we have to play the strongest team in the tournament in the last eight.
“I hope we will be able to match them.
Arshavin is aware that Russia, who have been wasteful in front of goal, will have to improve their finishing if they are to prevail against the Dutch.
“I don’t think we needed to score that many goals in the Swedish game,” said Arshavin.
“We need to save them for the next games and I hope we will score a few against the Dutch.”
