Bucharest, June 12 (H.S.): In the Group H match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers at the National Arena, Romania defeated Cyprus 2-0, remaining in contention for the group's top position. Florin Tănase and Denis Man scored in the first half, with Tănase netting the opener in the 43rd minute after a fast counter-attack, followed shortly by Man just before halftime following a one-two with Denis Drăguș. Romania's aggressive start led to several chances, with key saves from Cyprus goalkeeper Joel Mall denying Poppescu and Man. VAR was used twice for red card assessments by referee Donatas Rumsas but no changes were made. Despite defensive shortcomings, goalkeeper Ștefan Moldovan's saves ensured a clean sheet, solidifying Romania's important win.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar