Iordanescu quits Romania role

By Paul-Daniel Zaharia

Anghel Iordanescu has resigned as coach of Romania after his injury-ravaged side could only manage a 1-1 draw in Wednesday's FIFA World Cup qualifier against Armenia in Yerevan.

Romanian disappointment
The 54-year-old, who was previously national team coach from 1993-98, has decided to step down despite his team remaining in contention in Group 1. "I consider resigning to be a normal gesture, because of our result and the way our style of play disappointed all Romanian football fans," he said.

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

Honourable decision
The coach handed in his resignation to Romanian Football Federation president Mircea Sandu after holding a press conference. "I am the only man responsible for the result in Yerevan," he said. "I have honour and this resignation is a matter of honour."

Landmark achievements
Iordanescu's first spell as coach saw him lead Romania to the quarter-finals of the 1994 World Cup, the finals of EURO '96™ and the last 16 at the 1998 World Cup. However, having taken charge again in January 2002, Iordanescu failed to guide the side to UEFA EURO 2004™ after an added-time equaliser in a 2-2 draw against Denmark.

Still hope
Romania are second in qualifying Group 1 but even though the Netherlands and the Czech Republic have a game in hand on them, the coach is sure that the team have a chance of reaching the 2006 World Cup finals in Germany.

Heart and soul
"Qualification for the finals of the World Cup can be achieved," he added. "I worked hard, but unfortunately without success. I hope my successor will achieve what I could not achieve. I want to thank to everybody and my heart and my soul will stay with our national team."