Calculations after Craiova – Sparta Prague » How the Oltenians qualify further in the Conference League
Article by Adrian Duţă – Published Thursday, December 11, 2025, 9:56 p.m. / Updated Thursday, December 11, 2025, 10:00 p.m.
Craiova lost to Sparta Prague, score 1-2, in the penultimate stage of the unique Conference League group. Olteni still have a chance to qualify, but they cannot lose against AEK Athens on December 18.
The precedent gives hope to those from Craiova. Last season, the first with this format, Backa Topola finished 24th with 7 points and -3 goal difference. At the moment, with one game left, the white-blues have 7 points and a -1 goal difference. More than what the Serbians managed last year, who qualified for the play-off for the eighth.
However, the ranking is close, and Craiova cannot be sure of qualifying with 7 points.
Calculations. Craiova needs a win against AEK to be sure of the spring Conference League
To be sure of the qualification in the spring Conference League, the University of Craiova must beat AEK Atena in the last stage. They would reach 10 points and could no longer miss the top 24 positions.
Craiova would have a chance to qualify in the play-off for the eighth and with a point obtained with AEK Athens. They would reach 8 points with a draw against the Greeks. The match will be played in Athens.
Theoretically, Olten could go on even with a defeat, but the chances are low, and they would depend on the other results.
Who qualifies in the Spring Conference
At the end of the 6 stages of the single group, the top 8 teams go directly to the round of 16. Clubs in positions 9-24 will meet in the round of 16 play-off. The 8 play-off winners will join those who qualified directly for the round of 16.
Craiova University still has a purely theoretical chance to rank among the top 8, even if they win with AEK. Instead, a victory would ensure the Oltenians a place in the play-off for the eighth.
Conference League standings
