CFR announce themselves to Europe

Comeback win
Christian Panucci gave Roma a 17th-minute lead but from that moment, the Romanian champions took control in the Stadio Olimpico. Ten minutes later, Juan Culio finished off a smart move to equalise and the Argentinian attacker scored again early in the second half, after which CFR looked far more likely to extend their lead than Roma to cancel it out.

Lofty status
Defender Gabriel Mureşan is one that is relishing in CFR's new lofty status. "Today we have shown we are a big team as we came from 1-0 down and looked like a mature team," he said. "Europe didn't know much about us before today, but I think we have surprised everyone."

Team spirit
CFR captain Cadú believes a collective will was the key to the result, despite some trepidation when Roma talisman Francesco Totti was brought off the bench in the 52nd minute to make only his second competitive appearance since injuring his knee in April. "It was the team that won the game, we have a great spirit," the Portuguese defender said. "I was a bit concerned when Totti came on but I realised that it was too tough for him to come back after five months and do something special. We have made a bit of history but it is hard to estimate our chances of going through."

Chelsea challenge
That is a realistic statement with FC Girondins de Bordeaux and the team that visit Romania in a fortnight's time – Chelsea FC – also in Group A, along with Roma. Cadú's compatriot and fellow defender Tony is aware of the strength of the 2007/08 runners-up, who defeated Bordeaux 4-0 on Tuesday, but points out there were plenty of critics who argued CFR would be out of their depth at Roma. "People thought that when we went 1-0 down we would embarrass Romanian football," Tony said. "But we demonstrated that we are a great team. The squad is very strong and we have to remain focused for the next game, because Chelsea are a big team."