Netherlands beat Romania while Italy beat France in the Group C of Euro 2008 on Tuesday night, with both victors going to quarterfinals and ruining Romania's dream against their deadly competitors, following its two draws against the French and Italians. Huntelaar scored in minute 54 and Van Persie in minute 87 against Romania, while Pirlo and De Rossi secured Italy's victory against the French who played in a formation of 10 for much of the match.
Despite the defeat, Romanian coach Victor Piturca congratulated his team for their performance in the European Championship, telling Romanian TV station TVR 1 that Romania managed to leave the competition heads-up. He considered Romanian players had a psychological breakdown when learning that Italy was ahead 1-0 against France.
After a well fought first round, Romania failed to stand up against Netherlands in the second round. After two attempts by Mutu early in the second round, goalkeeper Lobont makes an incredible save against Van Persie in min. 49. Huntelaar manages to open score min. 54 and after a long Romanian struggle Van Persie strengthens the lead in min. 87.
Netherlands accomplished the victory with many of its key players replaced for the match.
Min 54 Huntelaar opens score against Romania:
Min 87 Van Persie scores, Romania is out:
Italian Pirlo opens score against France (min. 25):
De Rossi improves lead against France min. 62:
Romania:
Lobont - Contra, Tamas, Ghionea, Rat - Codrea, Chivu - Nicolita, Cocis, Mutu - M. Niculae
Olanda:
Stekelenburg - Boulahrouz, Heitinga, Bouma, De Clerc - De Zeeuw, Engelaar - Van Persie, Afellay, Robben - Huntelaar
Meanwhile, Italy had a perfect night defeating France. A first shock for the French came m
