Chindia and Farul clashed in the first leg of the Superliga playoff for promotion and relegation at the Eugen Popescu Stadium. This match took place on May 23, 2026, starting at 17:30. The game is significant as it determines which team will secure a place in the Superliga.
Match Background
Chindia entered the playoff as the last-placed team from Liga 2. They earned this opportunity due to FC Bihor’s failure to receive a first-division license. In contrast, Farul faced disappointment following a recent loss to Metaloglobus, which had already been relegated.
Season Recap
- 2022/2023 Season: Chindia was relegated while Farul won the league title.
- Previous Meetings: The teams played twice, ending in a 0-0 draw at Ovidiu and a 1-1 tie at Târgoviște.
- Key Players in Past Matches: Goals were scored by Pitu and Neguț, who are no longer with their respective teams.
Match Highlights
Chindia took an early lead in the first half. In the 22nd minute, Popadiuc capitalized on a mistake by Farul’s goalkeeper, Rafael Munteanu. The goal came after Munteanu fumbled a lateral cross, allowing Popadiuc to score into an open net.
Missed Opportunities
Farul had a golden chance to equalize but failed to convert from close range after Denis Alibec’s assist.
Starting Lineups
| Chindia | Farul |
|---|---|
| Isvoranu | R. Munteanu |
| Martac | Furtado |
| Bilali | Larie |
| Celea | Sîrbu |
| Brumă | Marins |
| Honciu | Vînă |
| Popadiuc | Dican |
| Doukoure | Işfan |
| Pesic | Grigoryan |
| D. Florea | Tănasă |
| Doumtsios | Alibec |
Coaching Staff and Referees
- Chindia’s Coach: Nicolae Croitoru
- Farul’s Coach: Flavius Stoican
The match was officiated by Marcel Bîrsan from Bucharest, assisted by Radu Ghinguleac and Ionuț Neacșu. VAR duties were handled by Florin Andrei, with assistance from Andrei Chivulete.
This initial leg sets the stage for a gripping playoff, reflecting the stakes for both teams in their quest for Superliga survival or promotion.
