2005 The Sports Network

Romania

Iordanescu steps down as Romania coach
11/19 12:51:00 ET

Bucharest, Romania (Sports Network) – Anghel Iordanescu resigned as
coach of Romania Friday following Wednesday’s disappointing 1-1 World
Cup qualifying draw with Armenia.

The point was the first for Armenia in five matches, but Romania was
decimated by injuries and suspensions. Romania is still in position
to qualify for Germany 2006 as they have 10 points from five matches.

“I respect Romanian football fans and because I respect them, I
decided to quit,” said Iordanescu, 54. “I stepped down in order to
allow a better atmosphere around the national team, because without
a good atmosphere, you cannot achieve something great.”

Iordanescu previously coached Romania from 1993-98, leading the
squad to the quarterfinals of the World Cup in 1994 and the finals
of EURO 1996.