19.11.2025 18:54
The head coach of the Turkish National Team, Mircea Lucescu, is being accused of match-fixing in Romania, one of the potential opponents in the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs. Speaking on the matter, Lucescu stated, "I have always valued the national team highly. My duty is to be there when needed. There is a limit, a line that cannot be crossed. What I have done cannot be achieved in 2,000 years. They say I sold matches to the Securitate. I did one thing: I focused on the development of Romanian football. No one can fire me."
Romania, which defeated San Marino 7-1 in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Group Qualifiers, finished third in Group H with 13 points and is among the potential opponents of our national team in the playoff stage. Following Romania's qualification for the playoffs, the team was shaken by allegations regarding head coach Mircea Lucescu.
CHAOS IN ROMANIA: THE REASON IS LUCESCU
According to reports in the Romanian press, Mircea Lucescu, who has served in Turkey for long periods, has been accused of match-fixing and collaborating with Securitate (the former secret police organization during Romania's communist regime).
LUCESCU RESPONDS TO ALLEGATIONS
In a striking statement during the press conference held after the match, Mircea Lucescu responded to these allegations. The experienced coach recalled the successful results he achieved throughout his career, stating, "I have always valued the national team. My duty is to be there when needed. There is a limit, a line that cannot be crossed. What I have done cannot be achieved in 2,000 years. They say I sold matches to Securitate. The only thing I did was focus on the development of Romanian football. No one can fire me. If I can't do it, I will fire myself."
WILL HE CONTINUE HIS DUTY?
When asked whether he would continue his role in the Romanian National Team, Mircea Lucescu expressed that he would remain with the national team, stating, "I am going to the draw tomorrow."