Romania boss Victor Piturca claimed Italy were fortunate to escape with a 1-1 draw after their Group C match.
Adrian Mutu saw Gianluigi Buffon save his late penalty with the World Cup holders staring at a Euro 2008 exit if Romania had scored and gone on to win.
"Italy had a lucky escape. Maybe Mutu was a little bit overwhelmed by Buffon being a class keeper," said Piturca.
"But these things happen and it will not be the first time nor the last time that a player has his spot-kick saved."
Romania took the lead when Mutu pounced on Gianluca Zambrotta's poor backheader but conceded a minute later when Panucci scored.
"I am actually more angry about how we conceded Italy's equaliser than about Mutu's penalty kick," added Piturca.
Romania have now drawn with France and Italy to give themselves a chance of making the last eight with a final group game against the Netherlands to come.
"This is a good result for the Romanian team," said Piturca. "We have played against the world champions and against the World Cup runners-up and we have two points.
"We still have chances to qualify."
Romania will be without midfielder Mirei Radoi for Tuesday's game against the Dutch after collided with team-mate Razvan Rat and was stretchered off after 25 minutes.
"I was told Radoi's injury is quite serious," said Piturca. "Apparently he will need to undergo eye surgery and he has a broken nose too.
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