Romania rolls Russia 3-0

The Tricolorii came out today to make a statement, that even though they have been drawn with Italy, France and the Netherlands in Euro 2008’s group of death, they should not be overlooked. Up against fellow Euro 2008 entrant Russia today, they made that statement loud and clear. After a cagey first half, Ciprian Marica netted the first just before the interval. At the half, both Adrian Mutu and Cristian Chivu came off, and it was an interesting chance to see if the Tricolorii could continue to dominate without their stars. The second half continued to be all Romania, with a goal each from the Niculaes, on the 61st minute from Mutu’s substitute Daniel Niculae and the 75th from Marius Niculae.

Marius Popa, not long ago the third choice keeper for Romania, got his first cap today as Bogdan Lobonţ was down sick, and he handled the few threats to his goal well.

A great win to prepare Romania for Euro 2008, and to prepare Euro 2008 for a Romanian side that does not look like backing down. I’ll have more on the win as video becomes available. Special congratulations to Marius Niculae for scoring in his first Romania appearance in a few years. I hope he can bring some of that quality back to Scotland and start netting for Caley Thistle as well.