While being investigated by the Romanian Football Federation’s Integrity and Anti-Fraud Department for possible match-fixing, 36-year-old Damjan Djokovic took to the field for CFR Cluj in a friendly match against Armenian side Noah, which concluded in a 1-1 draw.
The Croatian midfielder was utilized by the technical staff of CFR Cluj on the same day reports emerged regarding his official investigation alongside lawyer Ioan Ivașcu, as part of the inquiry initiated by the Romanian Football Federation.
Djokovic Enters in Second Half
Djokovic began the match on the bench and was brought on in the 63rd minute, substituting defender Pantalon amid a series of substitutions by CFR.
The Cluj side took the lead in the 76th minute with a goal from Sula, assisted by Simao, but Noah equalized just two minutes later.
A draw in the friendly match against FC Noah: Sula scored for our team in the 76th minute from Simao’s pass. Our opponents managed to equalize immediately after in the 78th minute. Starting lineup: Moreira (63’ Vâlceanu), Camora (63’ Simao), Abeid (63’ Savic), Pantalon (63’ Djokovic), Braun (63’ Kun), Fică (63’ Barrios), Muhar (50’ Perianu), Korenica (63’ Zahovic), Cordea (63’ Matei), Biliboc (63’ Sfait), Păun (63’ Sula),” stated the team on their social media.
Reason for Djokovic’s Investigation
Djokovic’s name has emerged in an investigation by the Integrity and Anti-Fraud Department of the Romanian Football Federation regarding several matches deemed suspicious. One match under scrutiny is the December 19, 2025, game between FC Botoșani and CFR Cluj, which ended 0-1 in favor of Cluj.
Public reports suggest that the midfielder is suspected of intentionally receiving a yellow card in the 77th minute of that match.
The incident that raised eyebrows occurred in the second half when Djokovic struck referee Charles Petro in the chest with the ball, prompting referee Sebastian Colțescu to issue a yellow card immediately.
Sources close to the investigation indicate suspicions of approximately €80,000 wagered on matches considered suspicious, with investigators examining both domestic and international games.
