Raphael Durand
Dailysports's expert
The opening match of the UEFA European Under-19 Championship kicks off this Friday in Bucharest, as Romania takes on Montenegro. I’m offering a bet on the outcome of this clash with an enticing odds value.
Match preview
The Romanian U-19 squad enters their home European Championship with heightened expectations. Marin Ion’s side didn’t go through qualification, earning automatic entry as hosts, but they’ve spent the year actively playing friendlies to gear up for the big stage. Despite less-than-perfect results — just one win in their last four games, including a thrilling 3-3 draw with Switzerland — the team is targeting at least a semifinal berth.
The head coach has openly declared a minimum objective of reaching the last four, while the players themselves are talking about fighting for the trophy. Romania will be buoyed by home advantage, the energy of the local crowd, and extra motivation to shine on their own turf, especially given past disappointments in the tournament’s final phase. The squad has clear potential, and they’ll be eager to make a bold statement with a confident opening victory.
Montenegro U-19 are the revelation of the qualifying campaign, having impressively navigated two tough groups to reach the final stage for the first time ever. Nenad Vukčević’s team left behind the likes of Poland, Georgia, and Slovakia, proving their resilience and tactical flexibility. This gives them inner belief, even if they’re seen as underdogs compared to the rest of the field.
Their chances of escaping the group are slim, but the lack of pressure could play into the Balkan side’s hands. The coaching staff emphasizes discipline and commitment, treating every match as a fresh opportunity to spring a surprise. Against Romania, Montenegro are likely to sit deep, focusing on counter-attacks and set pieces.
Probable lineups
- Romania U-19: R. Munteanu, I. Cherchel, D. Falcusan, R. Gutia, D. Maftei, E. Marinchau, R. Marita, D. Pacuraru, D. Sandro, L. Simionas, I. Vermesan.
- Montenegro U-19: O. Milovic, M. Vrakar, A. Karadzic, B. Tomasevic, L. Maras, S. Djukanovic, A. Bulatovic, D. Vukanic, A. Camaj, M. Tadic, M. Perovic.
Match facts and head-to-head
- This will be the first official meeting between Romania U-19 and Montenegro U-19
- The match will be played at the "Arcul de Triumf" stadium in Bucharest, with Romania enjoying home support
- Montenegro are making their debut at the U19 EURO finals, while Romania are participating for the third time
Prediction
Despite inconsistent form in friendlies, Romania boasts a stronger squad, real tournament ambition, and the backing of their fans. Montenegro have already made history and could lack the same emotional edge in their opener. Expect the hosts to dominate in attack, and if they capitalize on their chances, the victory should be theirs.
