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Russia destroyed by Romania in Euro-2008 friendly
Russian football team has hit the ground with a bang on Wednesday, after
going down 3-0 to Romania in a friendly in Bucharest. Coach Guus Hiddink
has chosen a new look squad for the game, but the matter of the defeat
will have the Dutchman worried, just a few months before the start of
the Euro-2008.
The hosts taking the lead right on the stroke of half-time. Chiprian Marica
finding himself surrounded by Russian players, but the Stuttgart striker
took little notice, firing home with aplomb.
And the visitor's woes were doubled on the hour mark. The Russian defence
allowing Florentine Petra's initial miss-kick to fall to Daniel Niculae,
who made no mistake.
And the score line got worse for Russian eyes with 15 minutes left to
go.
The CSKA Moscow trio of Berezutsky brothers and Ignashevich having an
uncharacteristic off day at the back. Marius Niculae this time finding
himself all alone and scores the third.
A night to forget all round for Russia, but with five first team players
out of the starting eleven, the hope is things can't get any worse.
Russia's Euro-2008 rivals all in action
Reigning European champions Greece are one of them. They were taking part
in a repeat of the Euro-2004 final against Portugal tonight. The Greeks
won out 1-0 in the decider four years ago. And this time around the result
was the same, but the score different. 2-1 for Greece.
Sweden will also be in Group D this summer. They were involved in a nostalgic
encounter with Brazil. The team, who beat them 50 years ago in World Cup
final in Stockholm, have done it again. 1-0 the score on the night.
Spain will be favourites to top Russia's group in June. They were involved
in a tough encounter against World Cup Champions, Italy and managed to
grab a 1-0 win.
Russia
Today, March 27, 2008
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