Former Romanian footballer Denuc Lupu has made a sensational statement that his team has already agreed on a draw with Slovakia in the final match of the Euro 2024 group stage. Such a result will allow both national teams to qualify for the playoffs of the tournament and leave someone from the Ukraine-Belgium pair behind. Accordingly, for the "blue-yellow" the only option to enter the playoffs will remain victory.
Agreement between Romania and Slovakia: what is known
In an interview with the Antena Sport portal, Lupu explained that it would be unwise for both national teams to take risks when a draw would suit them both. According to him, a similar situation already happened at Euro-2004, when Sweden and Denmark drew, leaving Italy behind.
"We qualify for the play-offs by drawing with Slovakia. Everything has already been agreed, it would be lunchtime if one of us did not get out of the group. Why risk it? It would be a shame! At this level, the players understand everything very well! Why are we in trouble?" said Lupu.
How will it affect Ukraine and Belgium
For the national team of Ukraine, the situation is getting complicated. "Blue and Yellow" will only be satisfied with a victory in the match against Belgium, which will take place on June 26 at 19:00 Kyiv time. In the event of a draw between Romania and Slovakia, Ukraine will lose their chance to qualify for the playoffs, even if they draw or lose to Belgium.
This adds additional pressure on the players and coaching staff of the Ukrainian national team. Team captain Taras Stepanenko has already expressed his feelings about this challenge, stressing the importance of each match.
Historical context: examples from the past
Such agreements between teams are not new in the world of football. In addition to the mentioned situation with Euro-2004, similar cases have happened before. This highlights the importance of strategic thinking at the highest level of competition. Players and coaches understand that sometimes it's better to secure a playoff spot than risk and possibly miss out.
Analysis and forecasts for the future
The current situation raises many questions about honesty and sports ethics. However, it will be extremely difficult to prove the fact of an agreement between Romania and Slovakia. This calls into question the fairness of some results, but at the same time highlights the importance of every match and every goal in major tournaments.
For the national team of Ukraine, this means that they must enter the field with maximum concentration and determination. Victory over Belgium will not only be a ticket to the playoffs, but also a symbol of their sportsmanship and will to win.
Editor: Yana Davidyuk
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