Italy started the strongest with a few good chances Alessandro Del piero came closest which was deflected for a corner. Tamas of Romania was the enxt chance on goal on the 18th minute from a set piece forcing the Italian keeper into a low left handed save.

Romania have had more attacking nature in the first 20 minutes than they did the whole french game. 38 Minutes in and Luca Toni heads it down in to Perotta’s feet only to see him fumble it long enough for Codrea to shield the ball away for a corner.

The rest of the first half was pretty un-eventful only Adrian Mutu picking up the games first yellow card for a foul on Pirlo. Then in the dying minute of extra time Luca Toni scored a quality goal only for it to be ruled off-side, although im not convinced. Maybe because its the curse of Friday the 13th.

Second half ensues much like the first. Its a fast paced action game with a lot going on on and off the bal. Mutu has a shot in the 53rd minute only for Italy’s No.1 Buffon to make a classic save. Then no more thana minute later Zambrota made a fatal mistake by headering back (to goal) a Romanian free kick only for Adrian Mutu to come in on his blind side to score a superb opener. And Romania take the lead.

Italy respond immediatly when Christian Panucci equalises from a set piece to level the game 1-1 in under a minute. The game has certainly livened up. 60 Minutes in and Italy have relaxed a lot and starting to play the football we all know them for.

A Fantastic bit of skill in the 74th minute sees Italy almost score with several other chances. Sublime through balls and induvidual pieces of skill but still the scores stands Romania 1 Italy 1. Its a real game of football now and well worthy of Euro 2008.

With 10 minutes to go Italy’s Christian Panucci who hasnt put a foot wrong all game gifts romania a penalty for pulling down Daniel Niculae on the edge of the goal line. The stadium erupts in disbelief and ecstasy in equal measure. Adrian Mutu steps up to take the penalty and blasts it at goal. But somehow the Italian keeper Buffon makes a fantastic save to keep Italys Euro 2008 hopes alive.

Its a fantastic strike and an even better save. Gotta be up there for save of the tournament. Italy spend the last 7 minutes throwing themselves to the floor in a vain hope of getting their own penalty but the Ref’s having on of it.. The game ends a much unexpected 1-1.

Italy were close to the best and Romania put on a blistering performance.. It was a fantstic game of football.. IF you missed it youve gotta watch the highlights tonight..

final score: 1-1 Draw
Verdict: Bloody good game of football!



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