Romania win Blind Football Euro Challenge Cup

Romania claimed gold at the second IBSA Blind Football Euro Challenge Cup, held in Thessaloniki, Greece, from 5-8 May, following a 3-2 win on penalties against Georgia in the final game.

World No. 39 Romania did not score any goals throughout the tournament for developing teams but proved to be strong on penalties to take the title.

The six teams that competed at this event were divided into two groups. The best two teams from each group advanced into the semi-finals.

Georgia, Romania and a Russian under-18 national team, which replaced Belarus that could not travel to Greece, were drawn in Group A. Hungary faced Moldova and Albania in Group B.

Romania subsequently drew against both Russia U-18 and Georgia 0-0, but still finished as the group-winner due to a 2-1 win over the latter opposition in a penalty shootout.

In the semi-finals, they recorded another scoreless draw against Moldova but win 2-0 on penalties.

Romania later extended the amazing penalty shootout record in the final with a 3-2 win against Georgia, which followed another 0-0 draw.

The 2016 Euro Challenge Cup champions have shown significant improvement after finishing in sixth place at the first edition of this competition in 2014.

Moldova picked up the bronze after defeating Hungary 2-0 on penalties.

The Blind Football Euro Challenge Cup is aimed at emerging blind football countries in Europe. Belgium won the first edition two years ago after defeating Czech Republic 2-0 in the final.