CFR Cluj is preparing to clash with U Cluj tonight at the Dr. Constantin Rădulescu stadium in a key fixture of the second round of the Betano Romanian Cup groups. The match is scheduled to kick off at 21:30 and will be broadcast live on Prima Sport 1 and Digi Sport 1.
After the first round, both teams sit with 3 points. CFR Cluj secured a 3-1 victory against Sepsi, while U Cluj triumphed at home with a 1-0 win over Petrolul Ploiești.
Ciprian Deac Comments on Team Selection Ahead of the Derby
In a pre-match interview, Ciprian Deac, the vice president of CFR Cluj, expressed uncertainty about the team’s lineup, hinting that they might field a squad comprising primarily junior players due to coach Marius Șumudică’s frustrations with the schedule. “I don’t know if we will show up with juniors; we do have juniors in the squad. The entire team is in camp except for two players, Braun and Simao, who are injured. It’s crucial for us to win this derby, and if we send out juniors, our chances will significantly decrease,” Deac stated during the Digi Sport program “Fotbal Club.”
Anticipation Builds for the Match
Fans are eagerly awaiting the match as both teams aim for victory to enhance their standings in the Cup. Deac noted that the team has several players under the age of 20 in training, and a mixed lineup might be on the cards. “We’re not thinking about the game three days from now against Petrolul, as this is a significant derby, and we must focus on it first,” he added.
Coaches Discuss Busy Schedule
Marius Șumudică has voiced concerns over the congested fixture list, having recently drawn 2-2 with Dinamo on October 25. Following this, CFR must face U Cluj today and then travel to play Petrolul Ploiești on October 31. “It’s incredible for CFR Cluj to play three crucial matches in six days!” he lamented.
“I don’t like being taken for granted, nor does the club I manage. This is the second time I’ve raised this issue, and I’ll say it again,” Marius Șumudică commented.
U Cluj’s Coach Confident Ahead of the Derby
U Cluj’s coach, Cristiano Bergodi, remarked on the importance of the match, stating, “Everyone wants to win in a derby. Three points are crucial for our qualification, and we will play to win. Our players are motivated, but we cannot afford to overlook the stakes of this derby, as losing could mean being eliminated from the Cup.”
