As the Romanian champions, Universitatea Craiova, prepare for their return leg against Levski Sofia on Wednesday at 20:30, following a 1-0 defeat in the first leg, Gabi Balint has shared his analysis of the remaining Romanian teams in European competitions.
The former Romanian international expressed optimism about CFR Cluj, cautious regarding FCSB, and skepticism about Universitatea Cluj’s prospects.
Balint’s Predictions: FCSB’s Odds at 50-50, CFR Cluj Likely to Advance
Balint noted that the return match in Latvia would be particularly challenging for Marius Baciu’s team, while he sees CFR Cluj as a favorite to qualify.
“I think it’s tougher for FCSB… It’s 50-50 for qualification. CFR Cluj will qualify, I liked what I saw. As for U Cluj, I would like to see them advance, but I don’t believe it; there’s a significant difference between the teams,” Balint stated during the “Fotbal Club” show on Digi Sport.
Upcoming Matches for Romanian Teams in European Competitions
All three teams are set to play on Thursday, July 30, in the second leg of the UEFA Conference League’s second qualifying round.
FCSB faces a setback after a surprising 3-2 loss at home to Latvia’s Auda. Goals from Octavian Popescu and Aymen Boutoutaou were not enough, as they conceded the decisive goal in injury time. The return match kicks off at 19:00 at Skonto Stadium in Riga, available exclusively on the Voyo platform in Romania.
Universitatea Cluj drew 2-2 in the first leg against Brann Bergen in Sfântu Gheorghe, rallying from a 2-0 deficit with late goals from Jovo Lukic and Pedro Pinho. Their return match will take place at 20:00 in Norway at Brann Stadium.
CFR Cluj achieved a favorable result in Armenia, drawing 1-1 with Alashkert. The hosts took the lead through Rafael Jesus, but the Cluj team equalized shortly after halftime with a goal from Andres Șfaiț. Their return match is scheduled for 21:30 at the Dr. Constantin Rădulescu Stadium in Gruia.
