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World Cup qualifying (Euro) Group One Preview: Make or break time for Romania [Fri Sep 2nd, 2005]
Group One could be a two-horse race after Saturday's matches, as Romania's hopes of qualifying hang by a thread.
The Romanians currently lie in third place, two points behind the Czech Republic, but crucially have played two more games. On Saturday they host the Czechs and simply must win.
Holland will be hoping Karel Bruckner’s side do drop points in Bucharest, to give themselves some breathing space at the top of the table. Marco van Basten's side have just a one-point lead at the top of the table, but this weekend face the much easier test of a home tie with Armenia, who have just four points from their nine games so far.
Four days later van Basten's side host minnows Andorra, but while both matches should be easy for the multi-talented Dutch, their coach isn't taking anything for granted.
"The coming matches will be crucial and if we win three of the last four we are almost certain of qualification," said the former AC Milan striker.
"In both matches we don’t expect too much from our opponents and know that we have to make things happen.
"And when it doesn’t work out the usual way, sometimes you need some physical power up front."
In Saturday's other match, Finland travel to Andorra. The Finns are in fourth place and now playing for pride, but with manager Roy Hodgson set to take over next year, the players will be looking to impress.
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