Recently parted from Hermannstadt, where he served as coach from 2021 to 2025, Marius Măldărășanu analyzed the FCSB versus Rapid derby that concluded with a 4-1 scoreline.
As a former player who remains closely connected to Rapid—where he won a title, two Cups, and two Supercups—Măldărășanu maintained an objective perspective while discussing the match held at the National Arena on Saturday.
Măldărășanu: “We Saw a Familiar Scenario with Dinamo”
“Măldă” emphasized that match dynamics can defy standings, stating, “In these games, neither the league position nor favorites matter. I mentioned before the match that Rapid might have an edge with five consecutive league wins, but no one expected such a result or this margin of victory.”
The first half was balanced in terms of scoring opportunities, with FCSB dominating control from the outset. They capitalized on an error by Dumbia to create the first chance, followed by a beautiful goal from Stojilkovic on their initial significant opportunity. Măldărășanu questioned Rapid’s decision to retreat after conceding: “It’s hard to say why Rapid pulled back. I believe it’s an instinct to protect the lead.” However, he did not believe coach Pancu instructed his team to defend more deeply, recalling a moment when Pancu signaled for his players to push forward during the first half.
Rapid’s strategy allowed them to attack, utilizing their squad’s strengths but also leaving them vulnerable to counterattacks. They concluded the first half ahead, buoyed by a strong morale.
The second half mirrored the previous match against Dinamo. When a substitute, Boutoutaou, came in, he made a significant impact on the game. Măldărășanu noted psychological moments that could have changed the game, particularly if Stojilkovic had scored in a one-on-one with the goalkeeper to make it 2-1.
“FCSB Maintained Pressure Even at 2-1”
Măldărășanu pointed out the key difference in approach, stating, “FCSB didn’t halt their momentum at 2-1, unlike Rapid, who became passive at 1-0. This unexpected scoreline is thought-provoking, and perhaps it’s good it happened now as a wake-up call.” He acknowledged the pain of losing to their biggest rivals but recalled a similar loss against Dinamo that ultimately led to winning the championship.
He urged the team to move forward, emphasizing that they still occupy a top position in the league and predicted that FCSB would continue to improve with valuable players, especially following Reghe’s arrival, which revived the team spirit. With three victories under their belt, they could contend near the championship’s top if they continue this streak.
“Did They Rely Too Much on Stojilkovic?”
Further discussing tactics, Măldărășanu argued that the narrative surrounding Pancu’s halftime adjustments was often exaggerated and that it was evident FCSB would push for more goals, thus leaving spaces defensively. While acknowledging criticism directed at Moruțan for his lack of impact, he noted that his effort was commendable, contrasting it with Dobre’s performance, which lacked efficacy despite defensive contributions.
Măldărășanu criticized the tendency to play directly to Stojilkovic, noting that while focusing on their striker, they risk isolating him, leading to a lack of effective play. He suggested they should have maintained possession to build play gradually but recognized the shock of trailing after previously leading was a significant psychological factor.
In closing, Măldărășanu reflected on previous playoff pressures that have historically challenged Rapid, emphasizing that this defeat should not overshadow their accomplishments this season. He offered hope that this setback could serve as a learning experience moving forward.
