Today Europe’s biggest football tournament gets underway at the Stade de France. Hosts France face a strong Romanian side in this opening game from group A. France have never lost a competitive game against Romania, two of those being Euro finals. These two nation’s history suggest that this opening game will have you on the edge of your seat.
Four of their last five encounters have ended in draws. The only win was a 2-0 victory for France at this very stadium during the qualifying rounds for the 2012 Euro. Before that defeat, the last time Romania played at the Stade de France resulted in a 1-1 draw against France.
Only two teams have ever beaten the hosts in an opening game of the Euro and gone on to win the tournament: Greece in 2004 (2-1 v Portugal) and West Germany in 1972 (2-1 v Belgium).
France not only go into this tournament as the bookies favourites, but they are also odds on favourites to win this opening encounter. Meanwhile the bookies have Romania well into triple figures for their chances to win this prestigious tournament. In recent years it has become common place for the underdogs to pull a magic performance out of the bag and stun the bookies. Do Romania have what it takes?
Romania have never won their first game of the Euro, so they will be looking to change this record when the whistle blows to commence this inaugural game.
The hosts have arguably the best and most dynamic midfield in Europe with players such as Pogba, Matuidi, Payey and N’Kante. However, as all goliaths do, France has a weakness, their defence. France’s fullbacks are strong players; however, their lack of pace will cause them to struggle heavily if put up against the likes of Vardy.
Romania's organised and extremely tight-fisted defence is the envy of all other managers at the tournament. However, they don’t seem to have a backup plan should things go awry. They often struggle to create chances from midfield, but with their lightening pace they one of the best counterattacking teams at this tournament.
Can Romania topple the French Giants? Be sure to watch the game this evening. Kick-off is at 21:00 CET.
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