Former Romania star makes unsubstantiated claim that a draw with Slovakia has been 'arranged' in their final group game at Euro 2024 - with both sides needing just a point to reach knockout stages

Former Romania international Danut Lupu has claimed that a draw 'has been arranged' between his nation and Slovakia at Euro 2024.

Group E is fascinatingly poised going into the final round of group games on Wednesday, with Romania, Belgium, Slovakia and Ukraine all on three points.

If Romania draw with Slovakia then they will secure their place in the knockout stages, while Slovakia could also progress as one of the best third-placed teams. 

As reported by AS.Ro, Lupu said: 'We will qualify, draw with Slovakia. It's arranged, it would be a shame if we both didn't go. Why risk it? Would be a shame! At that level the players get along very well! Why risk it? Why get in an accident?'.

Slovakia can secure their place in the round of 16 by beating Romania, but they will be knocked out if they lose and Belgium avoid defeat against Ukraine.

Slovakia can secure their place in the round of 16 by beating Romania, but they will be knocked out if they lose and Belgium avoid defeat against Ukraine.

Romania secured an impressive 3-0 win against Ukraine in their first group game but were then beaten 2-0 by Belgium.

This is the sixth time that Romania are appearing at the Euros. The only time that they have previously progressed beyond the group stages was at Euro 2000, when they reached the quarter-finals.

Slovakia, meanwhile, won 1-0 against Belgium in their first game and were then beaten 2-1 by Ukraine. 

Lupu made 14 appearances for Romania between 1989 and 1998.

He played for Panathinaikos and also had various spells at Dinamo Bucharest and Rapid Bucharest. 

Mail Sport has contacted the Romanian and Slovakian FAs for comment.