In the latest round of the Superliga, Rapid and Petrolul faced off in a highly anticipated match, dubbed the “Primvs Derby.” The match took place at the Giulești stadium, starting at 20:00. This fixture marks an essential point in the season as both teams have sharply contrasting goals.
The Stakes of the Match
Rapid is vying for the championship title, currently sitting in second place with 48 points, just one point behind the league leaders, Universitatea Craiova. Conversely, Petrolul battles to avoid relegation, positioned 12th with 24 points, just above the relegation zone.
Recent Form
- Rapid has secured three victories and one loss in their last four matches of 2026.
- Petrolul has recorded one win, one draw, and two losses during the same timeframe.
- In their last encounter, Rapid triumphed over Hermannstadt with a score of 3-0.
The tension in this match hinges on significant implications for both teams. A victory for Rapid could temporarily place them at the top of the table, while a loss for Petrolul may deepen their relegation woes. Both teams understand the importance of this derby, further intensifying the rivalry.
Starting Lineups
The teams lined up as follows:
| Team | Formation | Starting XI |
|---|---|---|
| Rapid | 4-3-3 | Iliev; Manea (cpt.), Pașcanu, Bolgado, Sălceanu; Grameni, Keita, Moruțan; Jambor, Petrila, Paraschiv |
| Petrolul | 3-4-3 | Bălbărău; Roche, Papp (cpt.), Guilherme; Ricardinho, Boțogan, Jyry, An. Dumitrescu; V. Gheorghe, Chică-Roșă, Dongmo |
Historical Context
The rivalry between Rapid and Petrolul is rich in history and passion, often referred to as the “Primvs Derby.” Historically, the matches have been closely contested, with significant victories on both sides. Notably, Rapid won their previous encounter with a narrow 1-0 victory, showcasing their competitive spirit against their traditional rivals.
In a recent statement, Rapid’s coach Costel Gâlcă emphasized the need for his team to maintain focus and confidence as they aim for the title, while Petrolul’s coach Eugen Neagoe acknowledged the challenge posed by Rapid, stressing the importance of physical readiness and strategic execution during the match.
This derby is not just a game; it embodies the local pride and fierce rivalry deeply rooted in Romanian football culture. As both teams take the field, the fans eagerly anticipate an unforgettable match filled with emotion and intensity.
