EURO 2008 INFO

In the "group of death" and absent from the international scene since 2000, Romania is undeniably the outsider of the group C of the Euro-2008, a status that does not prevent them from dreaming about the exploits against France , Italy and the Netherlands.

On paper, pass the first round appears to be a mission impossible for men to Victor Piturca who have all watched on TV the last three major competitions (World-2002 and 2006, Euro-2004).

Faced with this lack of experience at the highest level, Piturca setting that gained in foreign clubs by half its workforce. And especially the master Cristi Chivu, owner with Inter Milan and courted by other major Europe, and striker Adrian Mutu, who became an idol to Fiorentina and in the Calcio in general.

Renowned evil, "Piti" has not hesitated to titiller the pride of his players, reminding them that they have an opportunity to avoid the label "lost generation" in comparison with the "golden generation" of Gheorghe Hagi years 90.

Hagi is the living god himself ascended into niche to tell his young countrymen that "believe in its potential" and that with a little luck a surprise is always possible.

"You can be the surprise of the competition as was Greece" in 2004, said the "Maradona of the Carpathians", mentioning also the quarter-finals of Romania to the Euro-2000.

For surprise, Piturca had warned the points race will prevail over the beautiful game and he will expect "a physical battle and tactical". One way to announce a padlock defensive able to withstand the onslaught of stars French or Italian.

This was reflected Wednesday in its selection of 23 containing not less than nine defenders and two defensive-oriented environments (Codrea and Radoi), probably inspired by both matches zero (0-0) face the Netherlands in qualifications.

With only four specialists, the attack is therefore included poor relation. In fact, the whole Romania is counting on the sense of purpose of Mutu, the third scorer in the history of Romania (27 goals), leaving behind the scenes Ciprian Marica and the two Niculae, Marius "Scots" Inverness and Daniel "Auxerrois."

"Mutu may be a decisive player as was Hagi for the golden generation", said Mircea Lucescu, coach of the national 80 years, showcasing its ability to make a difference in a pocket handkerchief and quality of its shots feet arrested.

After a friendly last test in Bucharest, Saturday against Montenegro, and his Piturca will focus on the match, 9 June against the vice-champions of the world french. Hoping that the dream "surprise" does not turn into a nightmare ...