Euro 2024 faces controversy as allegations emerge that Slovakia and Romania colluded to secure their progression by agreeing to a draw in their final group stage match.
Following Croatia’s 1-1 draw with Italy and Hungary’s 1-0 victory over Scotland, both teams in Group E found themselves in a precarious position. This set the stage for a historic moment in Euro history this summer, as Group E became the first group ever to feature all four teams tied with 3 points each heading into the final matchday.
Hungary and Croatia, standing third with 3 and 2 points respectively, ensured that a draw between Romania and Slovakia would be sufficient for both teams to advance from Group E.
The scenario unfolded as follows: if Romania and Slovakia drew 0-0, Ukraine would need to defeat Belgium by at least a 2-goal margin to qualify. In such a scenario, Belgium would drop to the bottom of the group. If Belgium defeated Ukraine and Slovakia drew with Romania, Ukraine would be eliminated.
If both matches ended in a draw, Ukraine would be eliminated due to inferior goal difference. Head-to-head results in Group E have so far proven inconclusive.
Recently, former Romania international Danut Lupu claimed that Romania and Slovakia deliberately agreed to draw their final match to ensure qualification.
Speaking to AS, the 57-year-old stated, “We will qualify by drawing with Slovakia. Both teams have agreed already, why risk it? It would be regrettable! At this level, players understand each other very well!”
However, Lupu’s comments were not supported by Romania coach Edward Iordănescu, who told the media, “Romania will play to defeat Slovakia tomorrow. We aim to win and secure the top spot in Group E. It’s as simple as that.”
The controversy surrounding Slovakia and Romania’s alleged match-fixing has sparked debates and scrutiny within the football community, highlighting the integrity challenges faced in competitive sports events like Euro 2024.
Stay tuned as developments unfold regarding this contentious issue at Euro 2024.
