The draw doesn’t really do either country’s World Cup hopes a great deal of good, but here’s how Goal.com rated each individual player on display.ROMANIA
Coman: 7.5 – An evening to be proud of for the custodian, who might have expected to come under a little more severe examination. His highlight was a fine block from Gignac, who must’ve considering his celebration before the goalkeeper’s fine diving intervention.
Maftei: 5.0 – Was given a torrid time for long spells of this game, tested frequently by the marauding Henry and attack-minded left-back Evra. Certainly not his best game, but he hung doggedly on at least.
Radoi: 6.0 – Not nearly as imposing as his partner in the Romanian rearguard, he did enough to keep France quiet. Perhaps fortunate to get away with a handball in the box in the second half, but it would’ve been a harsh award if given.
Chivu: 8.0 – Terrific performance from the Inter central defender, who showed that he is a world class centre-back. Made countless blocks as France flowed forward, intercepted a ton of passes and made innumerable headers.
Rat: 6.5 – Was faced up against Anelka, and after a difficult start to the match got to grips with the Chelsea man, nullifying his threat in the second half. Too easily beaten at times in the first half, though.
Ghioane: 6.0 – Asked to play a holding role in midfield, it was his job to stop France, and most specifically Gourcuff playing. Had his successes, but it was certainly not a battle he could claim to have comprehensively won.
Apostol: 7.0 – A success in the Romanian side, the midfielder was tenacious throughout. Although his primary role was to prevent the French from excelling in central areas, it was his cross that invoked the own goal that brought the guests level.
Mara: 6.0 – Asked to play on the right of midfield and counterattack when possible, the Cluj forward struggled to make a real impact on the game. Found it tough against Evra, who bombed forward frequently, and was not overly keen on his defensive duties.
Surdu: 5.5 – The main support for Marica in attack, Surdu missed a golden first half opportunity, prodding past the post after some superb build-up play from the lone frontman.
Nicu: 6.0 – Another Romania offensive player who did not have the influence on proceedings that he might have wanted. France’s offensive approach made life difficult for the Romanians in the offensive midfield zone, and hence their influence was largely minimal.
Marica: 6.0 – Lacking support when he gained possession, Marica troubled the French defence with his pace and skill sporadically. Left Escude standing with a brilliant turn in the first half, but unfortunately his team-mates weren’t to the same standard. Too few moments of that ilk, though.
Substitutes
Roman: 6.5 – Very bright spell when he was initially introduced, but faded quickly.
Bucur: n/a – Given little over ten minutes at the end of the match but could not make his presence felt.
Codrea – n/a – Three minutes plus stoppage time was not enough for the Siena man to make an impact.
