Andrei Coubiș made his competitive debut for Romania on Friday evening as the Tricolori were narrowly beaten 2-1 by Sweden in the UEFA Nations League.
The City defender started at centre-back at the Strawberry Arena in Solna, completing the full 90 minutes as Gheorghe Hagi's side began their Nations League campaign with defeat.
It marked a significant milestone for Coubiș, who earned his first competitive appearance for the senior national team having previously represented Romania in friendly fixtures.
Sweden took the lead after 20 minutes when Alexander Isak found the net, before Romania responded nine minutes later through Dennis Man. The hosts restored their advantage shortly before half-time, with Viktor Gyökeres making it 2-1 in the 43rd minute.
Coubiș remained on the pitch throughout the second half as Romania pushed for an equaliser, but Sweden held on to claim all three points.
The result sees Romania begin their Nations League campaign in Group B4 alongside Sweden, Poland and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Coubiș and Romania will return to action on Monday 28 September, when they host Bosnia and Herzegovina in their second group fixture.
Romania's fixtures
Romania v Bosnia and Herzegovina
Monday 28 September | 7.45pm
Poland v Romania
Friday 2 October | 7.45pm
Romania v Sweden
Monday 5 October | 7.45pm
All kick-off times are UK time.
