CFR Cluj vs. U Cluj: Superligă Playoff Derby Live in Stage 26
The Superligă Playoff Derby between CFR Cluj and U Cluj is set to unfold today at 20:00 in Cluj-Napoca. This highly anticipated match is part of the 26th round of the Romanian Superliga and will be broadcast live on PrimaSport 1 and DigiSport 1, along with real-time updates from El-Balad’s reporters at the stadium.
CFR Cluj vs. U Cluj: Match Preview
Both teams are currently performing well in the league. CFR Cluj secured six consecutive victories and currently occupies the 7th position with 38 points, just one point shy of FC Botoșani in 6th. Meanwhile, U Cluj stands at 4th place with 42 points, having achieved three wins in a row.
Starting Lineups
Here are the anticipated starting lineups for both teams:
- CFR Cluj (4-3-3):
- Goalkeeper: M. Popa
- Defenders: Abeid, Sinyan, M. Ilie, Camora
- Midfielders: Muhar, D. Djokovic, Korenica
- Forwards: Cordea, Aliev, Biliboc
Substitutes: Vâlceanu, Gal, Kun, Masic, Perianu, Huja, Fică, C. Deac, Sfait, Zahovic, Silmani, M. Kamara
Injuries/Suspensions: Braun, T. Keita (suspended), A. Păun, S. Rocha (injured)
Coach: Daniel Pancu - U Cluj (4-3-3):
- Goalkeeper: Gertmonas
- Defenders: Mikanovic, I. Cristea, Cisse, Chipciu
- Midfielders: Nistor, Codrea, Drammeh
- Forwards: Macalou, A. Trică, Mendy
Substitutes: Lefter, Cosa, Chinteș, Coubiș, Toșca, G. Simion, Bic, Stanojev, El Sawy, Gherorghiță, Fabry, Lukic
Injuries: Artean, V. Postolachi, Capradossi (injured)
Coach: Cristiano Bergodi
Security Measures and Fan Attendance
Significant security measures are in place for this derby. All surrounding streets near the stadium, “Dr. Constantin Rădulescu,” are completely closed. The fan group from U Cluj has arrived on foot from the city center, filling an entire section with approximately 3,000 supporters.
Supporters began entering the stadium an hour before kickoff, bracing for the chilly 7-degree weather in Cluj. The atmosphere is electric, reflecting the intense rivalry that has built over recent weeks.
Historical Context and Rivalry
This matchup has a rich history. In their previous 39 competitive encounters, CFR Cluj has won 19 times, while U Cluj has claimed victory in 8 matches, with 12 encounters ending in a draw.
The inaugural match between these clubs in the Superliga took place on December 7, 1947. Since then, they have faced each other many times, with memorable moments marking this storied rivalry.
Both teams have critical goals as they push for play-off positions. The stakes are high, and players are expected to deliver their best performances on the pitch. As the match approaches, the anticipation grows for what promises to be a thrilling encounter.
