Romania make light work of Hungary

Romania tightened their grip on second place in FIFA World Cup qualifying Group D with a commanding defeat of Hungary in Bucharest.

The game was just two minutes old when former FC Schalke 04 striker Ciprian Marica scored his third goal of qualifying. Mihai Doru Pintilii doubled the hosts' lead shortly after the half-hour mark and FC Steaua București team-mate Cristian Tănase completed the formalities two minutes from time.

Marica set Romania on the way to their biggest competitive win against Hungary, running through on goal and beating visiting goalkeeper Ádám Bogdán with aplomb. Marica then turned provider for midfielder Pintilii, who opened his international account with a venomous long-range strike that nestled inside the top corner. 

Bogdan Stancu and Adrian Popa both wasted opportunities to extend the hosts' lead after the break, while Tanase made no mistake from close range to ensure Victor Piţurcă's team go into Tuesday's fixture at home to third-placed Turkey three points clear of their opponents.