U Cluj is aiming for a critical play-off position as they face Unirea Slobozia in the 23rd round of Liga 1. The match kicked off at Cluj Arena at 17:05, following a slight delay caused by a previous game. Currently, U Cluj holds a 1-0 lead.
Match Highlights and Key Players
Andrei Gheorghiță scored the only goal in the fifth minute, marking his first official goal for U Cluj. The assist came from Macalou, whose play helped to confuse the opposition’s defense.
Team Line-ups
- U Cluj (4-1-4-1):
- Goalkeeper: Gertmonas
- Defenders: Mikanovic, J. Cisse, I. Cristea, Chipciu
- Midfield: Codrea, G. Simion, Drammeh, Gheorghiță, Macalou
- Forward: Trică
- Unirea Slobozia (4-3-3):
- Goalkeeper: D. Rusu
- Defenders: Dorobanțu, Safranov, Antoche, Șerbănică
- Midfield: Lungu, Al. Albu, V. Pop
- Forwards: Papeau, Bărbuț, E. Torres
Current Form and Statistics
U Cluj’s recent performance at home shows three victories, five draws, and three losses. In contrast, Unirea Slobozia has secured three wins out of eleven away matches this season, with two draws.
Interestingly, U Cluj has yet to receive any penalties in the first 22 rounds of the league, while they have allowed only two goals from set pieces—an impressive defensive record.
Previous Encounters
U Cluj and Unirea Slobozia have met three times in Liga 1, with U Cluj winning two of those matches. Their last matchup ended in a 1-0 victory for U Cluj, while the first game was a 2-2 draw.
Referee and Match Officials
- Referee: George Roman (Timișoara)
- Assistant Referees: Marius Badea (Râmnicu Vâlcea), Raul Ghiciulescu (Lugoj)
- VAR Official: Iulian Dima (București)
- Assistant VAR: Vasile Marinescu (București)
As the game progresses, the outcome could significantly influence U Cluj’s pursuits in the play-off standings. Fans will be closely watching for further developments as they strive for success in this season’s Liga 1 competition.
