Cautious Czechs contain Romania

Romania and the Czech Republic played out a goalless draw in windy conditions, a result that suited the visitors more than their hosts.

Tight group
The Netherlands defeated Armenia 3-1 before this match to move to the top of UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualifying Group 1, and previous leaders Romania needed to gain victory to restore their one-point lead. However, they now trail by that amount, and while they are a point ahead of today's opponents, the Czechs have two games in hand on Romania and one on the Dutch.

Romanian efforts
All the goal chances came from Romania, starting with Andrei Prepelita's tenth-minute effort from 20 metres that went wide. Banel Nicolita missed on 34 minutes, while Ianis Zicu was twice denied by Czech goalkeeper Tomáš Grigár from close range in the second half.

Wednesday chance
The Czechs can leap to first place by overcoming visitors Armenia in Wednesday's only game in the group, a result that would leave them able to make the play-offs with a win against the Dutch on 7 October. That day Romania complete their fixtures in Finland knowing that a victory will almost certainly be the requirement to keep any qualification hopes alive.