Romania vs. Hungary: Date, Time, Live Stream and Preview

For the second time in 2013, Romania and Hungary will square off in hopes of picking up three valuable points towards 2014 World Cup qualification. 

The two European countries sit side by side on the map, but don't expect a neighborly atmosphere in Bucharest on Friday.

The two rivals had to settle for a draw in the first meeting, and each side will have plenty to play for. While Romania is trailing Hungary in the points table, the visitors are likely still fuming over the previous result in Budapest.

With plenty at stake, let's set the stage for Friday's 2014 World Cup qualifying clash in Bucharest.

When: Friday, September 6, at 2 p.m. ET (9 p.m. local time)

Where: Stadionul National, Bucharest, Romania

Live Stream: ESPN3

Top Storyline: Will Hungary Avenge Previous Draw in Budapest?

In the previous matchup between these two nations last March in Budapest, Hungary was just moments away from earning three vital points. But a stoppage-time goal from Alexandru Chipciu leveled the match and helped Romania escape with a draw.

Despite that result, Hungary is still currently in second place in Group D qualification, one point ahead of Romania.

The Netherlands have a stranglehold on the group through six matches, seven points clear of second place and boasting a plus-18 goal differential. With both Romania and Hungary battling it out for the lone play-off spot, Friday's result will be pivotal in determining which country inches closer to a potential 2014 World Cup berth.

Prediction

It's difficult to know exactly what we can expect from either squad with nearly six months having passed since either played a 2014 World Cup qualifying match. 

Based on the previous meeting last March, Romania would appear to have the slight edge. Tricolorii controlled the ball for longer stretches and put more pressure on Hungary in the first matchup, landing seven shots on target.

Plus, Romania will be at an advantage playing at home with the crowd on their side.

But keep in mind that Hungary haven't dropped a match since March's draw. The squad earned an away draw against Turkey four days later and looked strong in a recent friendly draw with the Czech Republic. 

In the end, these are two evenly matched, motivated squads. Therefore, don't expect much to separate them on Friday.

Romania 1, Hungary 1

Follow Bleacher Report Featured Columnist Patrick Clarke on Twitter.