Vassaras Appoints Top Referee, Surprise VAR Choice for U Craiova vs. FCSB

In the latest developments in Romanian football, controversy has erupted surrounding the officiating during the recent Cupa României match between Universitatea Craiova and FCSB. The match ended in a 2-2 draw, but FCSB has alleged that the referee Horațiu Feșnic overlooked a handball prior to the hosts’ second goal.
Key Match Details
- Match Date: Thursday, date unspecified
- Teams: Universitatea Craiova vs. FCSB
- Final Score: 2-2
- Location: Unspecified stadium in Romania
FCSB has formally contested the decision made by referee Feșnic, as well as VAR referee Cătălin Popa, who did not intervene during the controversial play. This incident has escalated tensions as the teams prepare for their next face-off.
Upcoming Challenges
FCSB will encounter Universitatea Craiova once again on Sunday, this time in a league match of significant importance. Currently, Craiova leads the league standings, while FCSB is fighting for a playoff spot amidst stiff competition.
Referee Selections
For the upcoming match, CCA has appointed Marian Barbu as the central referee. Barbu is recognized as the second-best referee in Romania, following Istvan Kovacs. The VAR for this game, however, has raised eyebrows due to the appointment of Ionuț Coza.
Controversy Surrounding Ionuț Coza
Ionuț Coza has been linked to past controversies for allegedly supporting a rival team, Rapid București. In 2021, accusations surfaced from Dan Alexa, claiming Coza had associations with Rapid’s fanbase. Such claims raise questions about his impartiality in officiating high-stakes matches.
League Standings
| Team | Points |
|---|---|
| Universitatea Craiova | 50 |
| FC Rapid București | 49 |
The upcoming encounter will be crucial, not just for league standings but also for the reputations of the referees involved. Both teams are eager to prove themselves as they aim for a shot at the title.




