USA (2) v (7) Romania

By Andrew Erlanger

Romania has bounced back from a tight day-one defeat, comfortably accounting for USA 7-2 and propelling itself towards the top half of Group A.

Early highlights came from the respective goalkeepers, each lunging their way to spectacular saves after a barrage of shots in the opening minutes.

It took a penalty kick from the USA’s Cornelius Cruz to finally break the deadlock, handing his side an important one goal lead in a low scoring game.

But Romania was quick to respond, Claudili Kostity capitalising on a defensive error to put his team on the board and level the ball game.

Then with seconds left in the first half Daniel Podina manufactured a goal out of nothing, blasting the ball into the back of the net from the corner of the fence and the half-way line and opening up a handy 2-1 lead for his side heading into the break.

A further two goals to the Romanians in the early stages of the second half appeared to put the result beyond doubt as the lead stretched out to 4-1.

However the USA were still full of enthusiasm and a courageous save from the goalkeeper – which saw him sustain a match-ending injury – personified the consistent determination of his side.

The Romanians were equally determined, and when captain Radu Muntean bounced back from a heavy knock to score a his side’s fifth goal after a brilliant run down the wing it was time to celebrate.

A diving shot gave Cruz a much deserved second goal and provided one last highlight for the USA.

But the Romanians were simply too good and another two goals rounded out the impressive five goal victory.

Photo Glenn Bailey / Photoworx