Lilian Popescu // Photo: fmf.md
This was noted by the head coach of the national team Lilian Popescu. “The meeting has a special symbolic meaning – it will be the 300th in the history of the Moldovan national team. It obliges us to respect and responsibility. Each player must realize that he has a chance to make history of Moldovan soccer. I believe in competition and equal opportunities for all. Regardless of whether the players come from foreign or domestic championships, it is important what they can offer to the national team now,” the specialist said in an interview with the press service of the Moldovan Football Federation.
The coach, who took charge of the Moldovan national team in September after Serghei Kleschenko resigned, shared his impressions of his charges’ performance in the two matches under his leadership – a friendly against Romania and a qualifier against Estonia. “I see that the guys are ready to work and open to new things. The first two matches were useful – we saw what level we are at, what potential we have and what still needs to be improved. I believe that the team showed spirit, organization and desire to make a name for themselves, even if the results do not yet reflect the full level of our preparation,” said Lilian Popescu.
The specialist also spoke about how, in his opinion, the “tricolor” can oppose the Italians in the upcoming match. “We will have to play against a world-class team, with rich traditions, values and experience. It is a challenge and an opportunity for us to test our strengths against the best. We want to be disciplined, brave and be positive in our attitude. I want the guys to take the field with respect but without fear. That’s the only way we can progress. At the training sessions, I feel the guys’ sincere desire to prove that Moldova can also play modern, organized and competitive soccer. Our strength is in our unity. We do not have world-class players, but we have players who make up for it with hard work, determination and team spirit. If we manage to stay disciplined and take advantage of our moments, we can have a good match,” concluded the head of the national team coaching staff.
Within the European qualifying tournament for the Mundial-2026, the Moldovan national team will have to play two final matches – against Italy (November 13) and Israel (November 16). Both matches will be held in Chisinau, although formally the “hosts” of the second match will be the Israelis.
Before the final rounds, the national team of Moldova with one point occupies the last, fifth place in the qualifying group I. Norway leads the standings with 18 points, the Italians have three points less (both teams have played six matches out of eight), Israel is in third position (nine points in seven matches), Estonia is fourth (four points in seven matches).
