2014 World Cup: 'The one at the end was a penalty, but the other one was a dive in the first half.' Arjen Robben

Arjen Robben admitted trying to con the referee in Holland's 2-1 victory over Mexico.

The Dutchman revealed that he dived in an attempt to win a penalty - but not for the decisive 93rd minute spot-kick that secured Holland's progression to the quarter-finals.

Robben had two penalty appeals turned down earlier in the match - before Klaas Jan Huntelaar converted in injury time - and later apologised for trying to fool Portuguese official Pedro Proenca.

'I must apologise,' said Robben. 'The one [at the end] was a penalty, but the other one was a dive in the first half. I shouldn't be doing that.'

Robben was awarded the late penalty when he was tripped by Mexico skipper Rafael Marquez, but the Bayern Munich star previously had two appeals turned down when his side were trailing 1-0.

Holland eventually drew level, with three minutes of regular time left to play, through a vicious strike from Wesley Sneijder. Robben's unsuccessful appeals fell either side of half time and, after finally convincing Proenca in the dying moments of the last 16 knock-out, he entrusted Huntelaar with the crucial kick.

'Usually I am comfortable with taking a penalty, but this time I was the one who was tackled,' said Robben. 'I felt comfortable that Huntelaar would capitalise.

'It was his moment, he deserved this. I'm almost crying from the emotions. The feeling is so strong, we want to win this, to fight together. These youngsters ... I am so proud.'

Mexico coach Miguel Herrera was furious and, after remonstrating with officials and Dutch players at full time, labelled Robben a cheat.