CFR Cluj and Universitatea Craiova meet in Gruia today at 19.00 in the last round of the Superliga’s first half, and the matchup comes with one clear backdrop: Marius Șumudică has rarely lost to Craiova. Before this game, his record against them stood at 11 matches, with only one defeat, six wins and four draws.
That history adds another layer to a fixture that already matters for both sides. Universitatea Craiova arrive after a victory in European competition and a run of league wins, while CFR Cluj can count on home advantage in Gruia. For Șumudică, the numbers show a familiar opponent and a familiar kind of test.
Why Filipe Coelho called it a difficult match
On the Craiova side, Filipe Coelho made it clear that the staff expects a demanding 90 minutes. He said it would be a very difficult match against a good and very aggressive opponent, one that can play in different systems and is especially strong at home, where it is a challenge to face them.
Coelho also pointed to the short preparation window, saying the team had not had much time to train and had instead focused on recovery before trying to be competitive and go after the three points, which he described as very important. He added that there is no single key to winning a match, only the need to enter at a good level against a strong opponent.
Craiova’s recent form adds to the stakes
Ștefan Baiaram also underlined the mood in the dressing room, saying the group has a pleasant atmosphere after the important European win and after a series of league victories they hope to extend. He noted that CFR Cluj are strong in transition, have tall defenders and must be watched carefully on set pieces.
The head-to-head background gives this game a sharper edge. In 2014, Șumudică drew 1-1 in Bănie with Concordia Chiajna against Universitatea Craiova. In 2021, he lost the Supercupa României to Craiova on penalties after a 0-0 draw in 90 minutes. Then, on 29 March 2025, Rapid lost 1-2 to Craiova in Giulești after a stoppage-time goal by Alexandru Mitriţă. Two months later, Șumudică answered with a 2-1 win over Craiova with Rapid in the play-off.
So while the table and standings context continue to matter, this is also a familiar matchup between two major Superliga sides. CFR Cluj will try to use Gruia and Șumudică’s strong record in the fixture, while Universitatea Craiova arrive with form, confidence and a clear target: three points.
