Romania delivered a sensational performance to secure their first European Championship victory in 24 years, emphatically defeating Ukraine 3-0 in their Euro 2024 Group Eopening match on Monday. The high-energy display from the Romanian side left Ukraine reeling and marked a memorable start to their tournament campaign.
Prior to the game, Romania’s coach Edward Iordanescu emphasized his team’s commitment to fighting for every inch of the pitch. His players embodied this spirit, displaying relentless energy in tackles and a tireless defensive effort, fueled by the passionate support of their fans in the stands.
“We have celebrated golden generations with remarkable achievements, but this team embodies the soul of Romania,” Iordanescu proudly stated after the match. “This generation has poured their heart and soul into this journey. The immense heart and dedication of this team are unparalleled. This generation’s potential is limitless.”
Two breathtaking long-range goals, one from captain and Player of the Match Nicolae Stanciu in the first half, and another from midfielder Razvan Marin in the second, stunned Serhiy Rebrov’s Ukraine. Ukraine, who had controlled possession in the initial 20 minutes, were caught off guard by Romania’s clinical strikes.
Stanciu’s thunderous shot, a rocket into the top right corner of the net, left Ukraine’s goalkeeper Andriy Lunin with no chance. However, the Real Madrid shot-stopper will be disappointed with Romania’s second goal, as Marin’s strike slipped beneath him despite a diving attempt.
Stanciu described his stunning goal as the highlight of his career, overwhelmed by the incredible atmosphere created by the Romanian supporters. “To score in a Euro finals and to achieve such a victory is simply unbelievable,” he exclaimed. “The support was extraordinary, unlike anything we’ve ever experienced. My family, my father, and my wife were all moved to tears by the occasion.”
Alt text: Razvan Marin joyfully celebrates his powerful long-range goal against Ukraine at Euro 2024, securing Romania's second score in the match.
Ukraine paid a heavy price for failing to convert their early dominance into tangible scoring opportunities. Romania absorbed the initial pressure and then capitalized on a Ukrainian error deep in their own territory to launch their first attack and score the opening goal.
“I am deeply disappointed with our performance today,” admitted Ukraine captain Taras Stepanenko. “We were not the team we usually are. Romania deserved this victory, and we must regroup and move forward.”
Dennis Man played a pivotal role in Romania’s attack, becoming the first Romanian player since Gheorghe Hagi in the 1994 World Cup to provide multiple assists in a major tournament match. Man initiated the first goal by intercepting a poor clearance from Lunin, setting up Stanciu perfectly.
Romania effectively sealed the victory shortly before the hour mark. Man, driving into the penalty area from a corner, delivered a precise pass across the goal for Denis Dragus to tap in the third goal.
Romania’s solid and organized defense effectively neutralized Ukraine’s attacking threats, denying them any clear chances to score. This defensive resilience was crucial in securing only their second ever win in 17 European Championship matches, with the first being a memorable 3-2 triumph against England at Euro 2000.
“Everyone has apologized in the dressing room. I believe the players are deeply aware that they underperformed, especially considering we represent a nation that has been bravely fighting for its freedom for over two years,” Ukraine coach Serhiy Rebrov stated, reflecting on the loss. “We are all deeply unhappy with the result. We will analyze this game thoroughly tonight and discuss it with the players tomorrow. Right now, emotions are running high.”
The final whistle sparked jubilant celebrations among the Romanian players, who embraced each other and remained on the pitch to share the joyous moment with their ecstatic supporters.
The match was briefly interrupted by two separate pitch invaders, who were swiftly removed by stewards.
For coach Iordanescu, whose father Anghel previously managed Romania in three separate spells and led them to the 1994 World Cup quarter-finals, this victory served as validation that their unbeaten qualifying campaign was not a fluke. Romania’s impressive win against Ukraine in Euro 2024 has firmly placed them as a team to watch in the tournament.
