Romania coach: Victor Piturca
The deep-thinking 52-year-old began his second spell in charge in December 2004.
He had qualified the team for Euro 2000 in his first stint but was ousted before the finals after a dispute about bonuses with Gheorghe Hagi and other senior “untouchable” players.
Piturca returned to Steaua Bucharest, for whom he had played and coached, and led them to the title in 2001. He had also previously led Universitatea Craiova and the national Under-21s.
Piturca, a prolific striker in his playing days, was a member of Steaua’s 1986 European Cup-winning team.
He scored six goals in 13 appearances for Romania.
What would be a satisfactory result from the finals and what would make you happy?
I’d be satisfied if we could get out of the group or, failing that, if we play well; happy if we reach the semi-finals.
Do you think about what Greece achieved in 2004?
No, I think about Romania.
Romania were good enough to win a qualifying group also containing Holland and Bulgaria. Has the team the potential to get even better?
Yes. This team has been progressing for the past three years and it hasn’t finished yet.
Can your leading players such as Adrian Mutu and Cristian Chivu really play at the same level as former greats Gheorghe Hagi, Gica Popescu and Dan Petrescu?
I can’t say for certain. But I’ll ask the players to do their utmost.
What is Romania’s strongest point?
The team unity is very important. The players all pull together on the pitch and are friends off it. But the most important factor is our organisation on the field. Hagi had around him more genuine talents than there are today, but team spirit and determination make today’s team more solid and stronger. We are one of the best organised teams in Europe.
Give an example of how this organisation has produced results.
Remember the qualifier against the Dutch in Rotterdam when we came away with a 0-0 draw? The players did all I asked of them and were disciplined and professional in what was a tough match.
Romania is renowned for producing skilful players. But your current squad looks physically stronger now, too.
Yes, we have very strong players now. Mutu is the strongest, despite his small stature; Chivu and Paul Codrea have been fortified from playing in Serie A; and you cannot demolish rocks such as Dorin Goian, Cosmin Contra and Razvan Rat.
What problems do you have to address before your first game, against France.
There’s a mountain of them! Here are just two: first, I’m not fully satisfied with some of the defenders and midfielders. Second, Chivu has suffered a shoulder injury.
Romania also face Italy and Holland. How do you view your group?
What can you say about facing the current world champions and the runners-up? The first game is essential. If we lose to France, our chances become minuscule. Nearly all Raymond Domenech’s team are fantastic, but he has to join together two generations. Against Italy we have to surpass ourselves since they have beaten us every time we’ve met. Holland are strong even though recent form has been poor.
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