Tirana triumph lifts Romania

Better result
The Romanians had been deeply frustrated by their failure to beat Bulgaria but this victory against Group G rivals Albania will lift Victor Piturca's side. A well-taken finish by Nicolae Dica put the visitors ahead 20 minutes after the break before Adrian Mutu wrapped the game up from the penalty spot. With the majority of the match being played in midfield, it came as little surprise that the first half produced more yellow cards than clear opportunities on goal.

Mutu influential
The away team started to apply the pressure soon after the break with Mutu emerging as a key figure. The ACF Fiorentina striker went close 15 minutes after half-time, his right-footed shot from the edge of the area drifting just over. Romania did not have to wait much longer for the breakthrough, however, a right-footed drive from Dica giving them the lead. Mutu's penalty secured the win after Florentin Petre was brought down in the area by Debatik Curri.