Euro 2024: Romania sweep aside Ukraine in group E opener
Romania kicked off their Euro 2024 campaign in style with a convincing 3-0 victory over Ukraine in the opening game of Group E at the Allianz Arena in Munich.
Captain Nicolae Stanciu stole the show with a goal that is already being touted as a contender for the goal of the tournament.
The match saw Romania, known for their defensive solidity but historically lacking in goals, explode into form with three well-taken goals. Stanciu opened the scoring spectacularly in the 29th minute, curling a sublime strike from 25 yards that kissed the underside of the crossbar on its way in. This marked a confident start for Romania, capitalizing on an early mistake by Real Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin.
Shortly after the interval, Razvan Marin doubled Romania’s lead when his speculative shot from distance caught Lunin off guard, slipping under the goalkeeper’s body. The third goal came just four minutes later, with Dennis Man providing the cross for Denis Dragus to tap in from close range, sealing Ukraine’s fate.
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Romania’s victory not only highlighted their offensive capabilities but also showcased their resilience at the back, led by captain Stanciu and anchored by Radu Dragusin. This win puts Romania atop Group E ahead of Belgium’s clash with Slovakia later in the day.
For Ukraine, the match highlighted defensive vulnerabilities and an inability to convert chances, despite featuring notable names like Artem Dovbyk and Oleksandr Zinchenko.
Overall, Romania’s performance in their first European Championship appearance since 2016 promises an exciting campaign ahead as they aim to build on this impressive start.
