Romania are set to face Bulgaria in a highly anticipated match in Bucharest on Tuesday night. Romania has been on a remarkable run of form, securing their spot in this summer’s European Championships with ease. They finished at the top of Group I, collecting an impressive 22 points from their 10 qualifying matches. Edward Iordanescu’s men have received praise from all over Europe for their outstanding performances. With their confidence sky-high, Romania will be looking to make a statement in this match. They ended their qualifying campaign with a 1-0 victory against Switzerland and have only suffered one defeat in their last 13 consecutive appearances across all competitions, dating back to November 2022.
In terms of team news, Radu Dragusin, who recently made a switch to Tottenham in the Premier League, will feature for Romania. Horatiu Moldovan, who now plays for Atletico Madrid, is expected to start as the goalkeeper. George Puscas, who spent the season on loan with Serie B side Bari, will lead Romania’s attack. Ianis Hagi, the star player for Rangers, will also play a key role in the match.
On the other hand, Bulgaria has struggled to find stability in recent times. They had a disappointing Euro 2024 qualifying campaign, collecting only four points from their eight Group G matches. Ilian Iliev, the coach of Bulgaria, faces a tough challenge to turn things around. In their last match against Azerbaijan during the international break in March, Bulgaria could only manage a 1-1 draw. They have won just one of their last 13 matches across all formats since November 2022. The team has also struggled defensively in recent years and will face a tough test against Romania.
In terms of team news for Bulgaria, Ilia Gruev, who suffered heartbreak in the Championship play-off final with Leeds last month, will start in midfield. He will earn his 17th international cap in the match. Serkan Yusein from Krumovgrad and Ertan Tombak from Slavia Sofia could make their first senior appearances.
Looking at the key factors to consider, when Romania and Bulgaria last met in a friendly match in February 2015, the match ended in a goalless draw. Romania has been in excellent form, with just one defeat in their last 13 matches across all competitions. They collected 22 points in their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign. On the other hand, Bulgaria has struggled, winning only one of their last 13 matches and failing to keep a clean sheet in their last 11 appearances.
In conclusion, Romania is the clear favorite in this match. They have been in outstanding form and have a significant advantage over Bulgaria. With their spot secured in the European Championships and riding a wave of momentum, Romania is expected to come out on top. The odds are in their favor, with bookmaker Dachbet offering the best odds of 4/7 for a Romania win.
