The USA Men's National 15s Team has confirmed will face Romania in Bucharest as part of their 2018 November schedule, USA Rugby confirmed today.
Taking place on Nov. 17, the matchup will be the first time the Eagles and Romanians have met in more than two years.
Following their opening match in Chicago against the Maori All Blacks on Nov. 3 — part of The Rugby Weekend triple-header (the game will be shown LIVE on FloRugby) — the Eagles will travel to Europe for their first Fall test with an opponent to be announced later; after that, they'll face Romania and close out their tour with World Rugby No. 2 Ireland on Nov. 24.
Romania are currently ranked No. 17 in the world, two positions below the USA. Last time both met, the United States lost 23-10 in Bucharest; however the Eagles hold a 3-2 lead in the all-time series between the two.
"Our schedule for November is a demanding one with an opening match against a New Zealand Maori team made up of campaign-hardened Super Rugby players and three away test matches; the last being against Ireland, the second-ranked team in the world," said Dave Hodges, general manager of Men's 15s Programs. "We welcome this challenge as we strive to improve our performance heading into a World Cup year."
A kickoff time and match venue for the Eagles' contest with Romania will be confirmed closer to date (although the Stadionul Arcul de Triumf is the likely place).
Tickets to see the Men's National Team face the Maori All Blacks at Soldier Field on Nov. 3 are available now at therugbyweekend.com.
The winner of the USA vs Romania game will be presented with the Pershing Cup, a challenge trophy between the nations named after former United States General John J. Pershing, who is also considered a hero in Romania.
Men's National Team 2018 November Schedule
USA vs Maori All Blacks
Sat, Nov. 3 | 6 PM CT
Soldier Field, Chicago, IL
LIVE on FloRugby
Nov 10 - Game to be announced
USA vs Romania
Sat, Nov. 17 | Time TBA
Venue TBA, Bucharest, ROU
USA vs Ireland
Sat, Nov. 24 | 1:30 PM ET
Aviva Stadium, Dublin, IRE