Ilie Dumitrescu, a prominent football analyst, recently expressed his concerns regarding FCSB’s starting lineup for their upcoming match against Bologna in the UEFA Europa League. This comment is made ahead of the crucial encounter scheduled for 23 October at 19:45. The game will be broadcast live on Digi Sport 1.
Match Context and Analysis
The fixture against Bologna comes after FCSB has faced a challenging season in the Europa League. Ilie Dumitrescu has scrutinized the team’s formation, particularly the inclusion of Mamadou Thiam as a central forward, despite previous assurances from club owner Gigi Becali. According to Dumitrescu, this tactical decision raises questions about the team’s strategy.
Dumitrescu’s Criticism
Dumitrescu highlighted the inconsistency of utilizing Thiam, who was previously indicated by Becali not to be used in that role. The football analyst stated, “It’s an improvised formation. Lixandru is moving to a central defender position. We are missing two key players, Dawa and Popescu, who provided excellent balance last season.”
He believed the previous duo, Lixandru and Dawa, formed a strong partnership in midfield, essential for the team’s performance. Dumitrescu’s insights reflect a broader concern for FCSB’s preparedness ahead of this crucial matchup.
FCSB’s Starting Eleven
In their upcoming match against Bologna, FCSB will field the following lineup:
- Târnovanu
- Pantea
- Ngezana
- Lixandru
- Radunovic
- Șut
- Alhassan
- Miculescu
- Olaru
- Cisotti
- Thiam
The substitutes include: Udrea, Zima, Graovac, Alibec, Bîrligea, Tănase, Kiki, Politic, and Oct. Popescu.
Europa League Schedule
FCSB’s journey in the Europa League 2025/2026 season has been fraught with challenges, illustrated by recent match outcomes:
| Round | Match | Result | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Go Ahead Eagles – FCSB | 0-1 | 19 September |
| 2 | FCSB – Young Boys | 0-2 | 5 October |
| 3 | FCSB – Bologna | 23 October | |
| 4 | FC Basel – FCSB | 6 November | |
| 5 | Steaua Roșie – FCSB | 27 November | |
| 6 | FCSB – Feyenoord | 11 December | |
| 7 | Dinamo Zagreb – FCSB | 22 January | |
| 8 | FCSB – Fenerbahce | 29 January |
As FCSB prepares for their upcoming match against Bologna, all eyes will be on the adjustments made within the starting lineup, considering Dumitrescu’s critical feedback and the team’s need for an effective strategy moving forward.
