The Supercup of Romania is underway as Universitatea Craiova squares off against U Cluj at Ion Oblemenco Stadium. This match marks a new trophy contest following their previous battles for the championship and Cup in the past spring. Fans can follow live updates on GSP.ro and tune in to Digi Sport 1 and Prima Sport 1 for the broadcast.
This competition is a continuation of the fierce rivalry between the two teams, with Universitatea Craiova having triumphed in both the league and cup last season. The Supercup is now the stage for these teams to battle once again.
LIVE: Universitatea Craiova – U Cluj 0-0
The match is still scoreless. Early opportunities have been noted, with U Cluj’s Alibek Aliev missing a significant chance, shooting wide after a great pass from Pedro Pinho. Meanwhile, a close call for Universitatea Craiova saw Baiaram nearly score, but U Cluj’s Stanojev intervened to avert the danger.
The match began with a moment of silence in memory of former footballer Gabi Mureșan, who recently passed away. Approximately 11,000 supporters are present in the stands.
Starting Lineups for Universitatea Craiova and U Cluj
**Universitatea Craiova (3-4-3):** R. Sava – Romanchuk, Screciu, Stevanovic – Mora, T. Băluță, Mekvabishvili, N. Bancu – D. Matei, Nsimba, Baiaram. Reserves: L. Popescu, Al. Crețu, Monday Etim, Badelj, M. Rădulescu, Tavares, Cicâldău, Elisor, Teles, A. Rus, Băsceanu. Coach: Filipe Coelho. Răzvan Sava makes his debut after transferring from Udinese.
**U Cluj (4-2-3-1):** Lefter – Stanojev, I. Cristea, Poulolo, Chipciu – Codrea, G. Simion – Pinho, Nistor, Bic – Aliev. Reserves: Michail Neofytos, Coșa, Adams, Chinteș, Coubiș, Techereș, Ștefănescu, Drammeh, O. Mendy, Macalou, Chukwu, A. Trică. Absent: None. Coach: Cristiano Bergodi. Florent Poulolo is making his debut for the team.
Updates from the Stadium
As of 19:55, around 6,000 spectators are present, with expectations that attendance will rise before the match’s conclusion. Notable figures in Romanian football, including national team head coach Gheorghe Hagi and U21 coach Costin Curelea, are also in attendance.
Despite being considered the away team, Universitatea Craiova’s financier Mihai Rotaru retains his usual box at the stadium, while U Cluj’s delegation has been assigned three boxes by the Romanian Football Federation (FRF).
Match Regulations
According to Supercup regulations, if the match remains tied after 90 minutes, no extra time will be played; the winner will be determined by a penalty shootout.
Changes to game rules include a 10-second limit for substituted players to leave the field, and VAR intervention for specific scenarios, including incorrectly issued red cards. New officiating guidelines will be enforced, aimed at streamlining the game.
