Article by Eduard Apostol – Published Monday, 18 May 2026, 08:25 / Updated Monday, 18 May 2026 08:25
Alexandru Chipciu, 37 years old today, outlined some conclusions of the season for U Cluj which was in the fight for the event, for the first time in its 107-year history
Those from U Cluj left by coach to the city on the banks of the Someș immediately after the failure in Bănie. A grueling six-hour drive. First, Cristiano Bergodi's players appeared in front of the gallery at the “Ion Oblemenco” stadium, the fans – in number of 400 – tried to encourage the footballers, even if they lost the championship and the Cup in four days.
Alex Chipciu, right after U Cluj also lost the championship: “I missed the Cup more”
Alex Chipciu, the captain of the black and whites, turns 37 today and will continue to fight for trophies next season with U. The international tried after the match to explain the situation of the team in this incandescent final of the championship.
The Cluj lost 5-0 in Craiova, after they were triumphant in the round, 4-0 on their own ground. Last Wednesday, in Sibiu, U also lost the Cup final against Craiova University, on penalties.
“I'd say I missed the Cup more than the championship. Anyway, I did something in this championship, performance. To finish 2nd, given the situation I was in… That's why I can't be upset.
I think the game was lost at the beginning when we conceded the goals very quickly, plus Mendy was sent off in the 43rd minute. It was clear that we had no more chances.
I am proud of my colleagues, of the moments we went through together. Let's not forget: we will be playing in the Europa League, which is a tough competition.
I don't want it to sound like a loser's speech, yes, I also thought about the championship, I admit, especially after beating Craiova at home, but that's all I could do. Congratulations to those from Craiova, it means they were better”, commented Alex Chipciu after the failure in Bănie.
We didn't go in scared, we knew we had nothing to lose, that's why we started with three in attack, to press, but we also made mistakes and they charged us quickly. That those who analyze keep saying to go over the opponent. Look what can happen!
Alex Chipciu, U Cluj defender
There remains a season where we finished second after so many years, the fans were singing even at 5-0 for us, and if I had one regret, it's that some of us gave up at the end and I didn't really like that
Alex Chipciu, U Cluj defender
