On a riveting Wednesday, Group E dominators Romania fought to a 1-1 standoff with Slovakia, catapulting both squads into the subsequent phase of Euro 2024.
Romanian coach Edward Iordanescu, incensed by rumors of a premeditated draw to secure progression, vehemently refuted these allegations post-match.
Entering the final matchday on equal footing, a simple draw against Slovakia would advance both teams to the last 16, leaving Belgium’s encounter with Ukraine inconsequential.
Eventually, Romania triumphed as unexpected leaders of Group E, following their stalemate with Slovakia and Belgium’s scoreless draw.
Iordanescu berated the insinuations of match-fixing, stating his team contested vigorously for 80 minutes, striving earnestly in the game.
“I take umbrage at the pre-game mudslinging at our team, our integrity, and supporters. It’s disgraceful,” he remarked.
Former national player, Danut Lupu, previously hinted at a pre-arranged draw with Slovakia in an AS.Ro interview, claiming no purpose in risking defeat.
Contrary to such rumors, the match was fiercely competed, evidenced by the flurry of 22 shots, with nine hitting the mark.
Romania now gears up for a knockout bout against the Netherlands, while Slovakia prepares to take on England.
Iordanescu expressed gratitude for the robust support from Romanian fans who blanketed the stadium in yellow, following the team zealously through every move from the train station to the hotel.
“This incredible support is something I hope never ends,” he admitted.
