As already reported, one of the possible opponents of the Ukrainian national team in the play-off of the 2026 World Cup qualifying tournament is the Romanian national team. The head coach of this team, Mircea Lucescu, summed up their performance in the group stage of the World Cup qualification. The Romanian team finished third in Group «H», behind Austria and Bosnia and Herzegovina, and will play in the play-offs as a representative of the Nations League.
«I feel bitterness that we didn’t qualify in first or at least second place. A tough play-off awaits us.
But I’m satisfied with the game the guys played in the last group match (against San Marino, 7:1, — ed.), their dynamism, readiness to attack, combine, play with two touches — this is how the Romanian team should play, this characterizes us. In this respect, we surpass many European teams.
If we had played the same way in the early second half against Bosnia (1:3, — ed.)... But we looked scared then. In three minutes, we gave the opponent 15 passes, and they scored as a result. Then everything leveled out, but these are childish mistakes. Yes, I scolded the players then, but took the responsibility: I couldn’t instill the necessary spirit in the team.
As for the play-off, I have no preferences for an opponent. Whoever we play against in the play-off, we must do everything to win. But I’m not a Messiah, I can’t perform miracles! I’m just like everyone else, but I try my best. And the players know the pressure I put on them,» Gazeta Sporturilor quotes Lucescu as saying.