Romania star Cristian Chivu is adamant that his side will not be overawed against Group C opponents Italy, France and the Netherlands.

Romania are major underdogs in a group that is rightly billed as “the group of death”, but despite the almighty challenge that awaits them in Austria and Switzerland this month, Chivu insists that they are in confident mood.


"It's been a long time since we were in the final of a major tournament but we are looking forward to the challenge," said Chivu

"We have a young side who did well in qualifying for these finals, so we go into the games without fear."

Late and dramatic injuries to Italian captain Fabio Cannavaro, Holland speed-demon Ryan Babel and France midfield enforcer Patrick Vieira certainly won't hurt Romania's cause, but Chivu insists that it is sympathy and not 'schadenfreude' that he feel.s

"It's a shame for them to miss a major tournament like this and I'm especially sorry for my friend and team-mate Patrick [Vieira]," said the Inter defender.

"It could happen to me, it could happen to anyone."

Romania will be participating in their first major tournament since Euro 2000, where they notably knocked out Kevin Keegan’s England, starting their campaign against France on June 9.