The atmosphere in Craiova was electric as fans of Universitatea Craiova gathered to welcome their team before the decisive match against Universitatea Cluj. The supporters, armed with torches and smoke bombs, created a vibrant and passionate environment that resembled a South American carnival. The match, which could see Universitatea Craiova become the new Romanian champions, has sparked immense interest among the locals.

Universitatea Craiova and U Cluj are set to face off on May 17, 2026, at 20:30, in the ninth round of the Romanian Superliga playoff. If Universitatea Craiova can defeat Cristiano Bergodi's team, they will clinch the Romanian championship title.

The fans have taken over the "Ion Oblemenco" stadium and the streets of Craiova, forming an enormous corridor to greet their team's bus. Waving scarves and torches, they cheered on their favorites before the crucial match against U Cluj.

Universitatea Craiova (1-3-4-3): L. Popescu – Romanchuk, Rus, Screciu – Mora, Cicâldău, Anzor, Bancu – D. Matei, Al Hamlawi, Baiaram. Coach: Filipe Coelho
Reserves: Joao Goncalves – Mogoș, Fl. Ștefan, Badelj, Stevanovic, Teles, Al. Crețu, T. Băluță, Băsceanu, Nsimba, M. Rădulescu, Etim

U Cluj (1-4-2-3-1): Lefter – Mikanovic, I. Cristea, Coubiș, Chipciu – Codrea, Bic- Stanojev, Nistor, O. Mendy – Lukic. Coach: Cristiano Bergodi
Reserves: Gertmonas, Coșa – Miguel Silva, G. Simion, Pall, Drammeh, El Sawy, Gheorghiță, Macalou, Postolachi, A. Trică