Scoutmania

In a decisive UEFA European Under-17 Championship qualifying match played on March 22, 2025, Scotland’s U17 national team secured a 2-0 win over Romania U17 at Broadwood Stadium in Cumbernauld, Scotland.

Romania, under its national head coach Nicolae Grigore, employed a 4-3-3 formation, emphasizing attacking play and fluid transitions. The strategy aimed to utilize the wings and maintain possession, seeking for the opportunities to break up Scotland’s defensive setup.

Scotland, led by Brian McLaughlin, opted for a 3-5-2 formation, focusing on defensive solidity and midfield control. This setup allowed for flexibility, with wing-backs contributing to both defense and attack, effectively countering Romania’s offensive tactics.

Scotland‘s tactical execution and stable performances, particularly in defense and midfield, were instrumental in their 2-0 win. Romania‘s efforts, though commendable, were thwarted by Scotland’s cohesive strategy and individual brilliance. Romania clearly performed better in the first half, when they were close to score multiple times – but Scotland fought back in the second half, and won the clash by two at the end.

Here the players who stood out in this match:

Raul Vancea (Romania / Watford FC), left-back born 2008.

Raul demonstrated exceptional technical skills and vision, orchestrating Romania’s offensive movements.

Mihai Răzvan Ninaci (Romania / CS Universitatea Craiova), left winger born 2008.

Mihai showcased versatility and composure, effectively linking the defense to the midfield, mostly by good offensive runs and combinations.

Alexandru Bota (Romania / FC Universitatea Cluj), attacking midfielder born 2008.

Alexandru displayed creativity and flair, consistently challenging Scotland’s defense. Definitely a player worth highlighting.

Fletcher Boyd (Scotland / Aberdeen FC), attacking/central midfielder born 2008.

Fletcher commanded the defense with authority, contributing significantly to the clean sheet. Was quite good in transition play and demonstrated his excellent vision.

Aiden McCallion (Scotland / Glasgow Rangers), central midfielder born 2008.

Aiden exhibited tactical intelligence and work rate, controlling the midfield effectively.

Alfie Osborne (Scotland / Heart of Midlothian FC), central midfielder born 2008.

Alfie showcased fearless attacking runs and fast thinking, creating multiple scoring opportunities.

To FOLLOW also Romania centre-back Bogdan Ungureanu (2008, Atlético de Madrid), centre-forward Ianis Avrămescu (2008, FCV Farul Constanța), attacking midfielder Denis Țăroi (2008, UTA Arad) and defensive midfielder Rareș Coman (2008, Sassuolo); and Scotland central midfielder Zander McAllister (2008, Motherwell FC), centre-back Callan Hamill (2009, St. Johnstone FC) and goalkeeper Ally Graham (2008, Nottingham Forest).

---

If you like it please SUBSCRIBE to the blog and you will receive all future articles and our upcoming offers.