Romania took the hammer in their Euro 2024 opener, and they successfully dominated a spirited Ukraine side 3-0 in one of the most famous football arenas in the world – the Allianz Arena. Nicolae Stanciu opened the scoring with a stunning free-kick in the first half, a statement of intent from the underdogs.

Stanciu’s rocket, set up beautifully by Andrei Ivan, gave the Romanians the boost they needed when they dominated most of the match. The second half saw them continue to push for their supremacy even harder. Răzvan Marin capped an ideal team play in the 53rd minute, and then within four minutes, Denis Drăguș sealed the match with a classy finish off a Dennis Man cross.

The struggling Ukraine tried to impose itself but could not break the solid Romanian wall. With this win, Romania told Group E that Romania is not here to make up the numbers; they are here to mix it up.