U21 Euros: Spain Come from Behind to Beat Romania 2-1

Spain stage a stunning late comeback to beat Romania 2-1 and secure their spot in the U21 Euro knockout stages.

Romania nearly pulled off a major upset in the UEFA U21 European Championship but ultimately fell short. Spain staged a late comeback to win 2-1.

The victory secures Spain's spot in the knockout stages. Romania's defeat means they still have a chance to advance, but their path has become more complicated.

Romania made a perfect start, with Louis Munteanu scoring inside the first five minutes. Munteanu coolly finished a well-weighted cross-field pass from Andrei Borza, lashing the ball high into the net.

Romania's dominance was interrupted when a VAR check awarded Spain a penalty after Cesar Tarrega was fouled in the box. However, Mateo Joseph's spot-kick sailed wide, giving Romania a crucial reprieve.

🇪🇸 Spain come from behind to make it 2 wins out of 2 in Group A ✅#U21EURO pic.twitter.com/ynjPgSlDyS

— UEFA Men's Youth (@UEFAMensYouth) June 14, 2025

Spain dominated the first half with relentless attacks, but a set piece nearly produced an equalizer. Marc Pubill's volley from a corner hit the crossbar, sparing Romania.

Romania's defense held strong, protecting their 1-0 lead into halftime and forcing Spain to regroup and find a way back into the game.

Romania created the best chances early in the second half. Ovidiu Perianu had two promising opportunities, but both were thwarted by Spain's defense, first by Cesar Tarrega clearing off the line and then by another block from Tarrega.

Spain continued to dominate possession, and their pressure paid off when Raul Moro's deflected shot hit the bar 20 minutes from time, with Razvan Sava making a crucial tip.

Spain pushed hard for an equalizer, but Sava remained solid, denying Javi Guerra with a strong save.

Romania's chances took a hit when Vladislav Blanuta was sent off for a late tackle on Cristhian Mosquera in the final 10 minutes. Spain immediately capitalized, with Mikel Jauregizar scoring from 30 yards out just seconds after the restart to level the game 1-1.

A brilliant performance from Javi Guerra 👏#U21POTM pic.twitter.com/RKENDFXS8E

— UEFA Men's Youth (@UEFAMensYouth) June 14, 2025

The mood on the Romania bench turned somber as Spain completed their comeback. Roberto Fernandez headed home Jesus Rodriguez's cross inside the six-yard box, giving Spain a 2-1 lead just three minutes after equalizing.

The win secures Spain's spot in the knockout stages, with a late comeback proving decisive for the second consecutive game.