After every EURO 2000™ match we will bring you post-match reaction from all the key figures. Additionally some of Europe's top coaches will be giving their tactical analysis of the game exclusively on Euro2000.org. Today, Gérard Houllier dissects the Romania-Italy clash.

Gérard Houllier, UEFA technical delegate:
"It was a game where both teams confirmed the impressive skill and individual qualities they had already shown in the previous matches. It was a wonderful football match like we had expected, and I was especially impressed with Italy. Their team have grown through this tournament, and they looked very well-organized and disciplined throughout this match. Both teams were off to a nervous start, but it seemed as if they settled down after 15 minutes and from then on, the game came to life. It seemed as if Romania was handicapped by the absence of Popescu in the back, as their off-side failed to work on three occasions, which was immediately punished. It is a shame that Hagi should end this tournament and perhaps also his international career in this way, but football is not always fair."

Dino Zoff, Italy coach:
"It was a very tough game for us. The Romanians combined well in attack and in the opening stages, we had difficulties closing them down properly. We were lucky not to fall behind within the first half hour. My players looked tired and unfocussed during the first 15 minutes, but we slowly raised our game to the level that we know we are capable of. We did not expect to win this game, but I think we preserved the ball well throughout the match. Unfortunately Conte received an ankle injury that looks serious, and I decided not to put Maldini out for the second half as he suffered a muscle contraction in the end of the first half. I don't really care who we will meet in the semi-finals. I have confidence that we are good enough to beat them all."

Emeric Ienei, Romania coach:
"It's difficult to say what we did wrong. We were forced to play without four of our key players and perhaps with them in the team, things would have been different. Italy had the luck in this match, but they also had killer instinct and all their key-players available. It was a crucial moment when Hagi was sent off. Instead of getting a penalty, we were suddenly down to 10 men, and that broke us down in the end. Hagi had two great opportunities to score but sadly missed. Of course I will continue as coach and I also hope that Hagi will continue to play for Romania. He has not taken his final decision yet. However, I am happy to see that other generations are gradually taking over in the national team. Mutu, Conta and Chivu are new in the team and new talents are on their way. The future is looking good for Romania even though it was a sad night today."

Alessandro Nesta – PSINet Man of the Match:
"It's not often that defenders get such an honour. I think we played well and as we are playing at the moment, we can beat them all. At the moment, I am occupying the same position in the national team as for Lazio and this has obviously improved my performances."