The battle for SuperLiga survival heats up this weekend as FC Hermannstadt prepare to host FC Voluntari in the first leg of the promotion-relegation playoff. The decisive encounter is scheduled for Sunday at 17:30, with fans able to follow the action via live text updates on Sport.ro. This match carries immense weight, determining which side gains a crucial advantage in the fight to remain in Romania’s top flight.

Teams Approach the Playoff from Different Angles

FC Hermannstadt concluded the regular season’s play-out phase in 14th place, accumulating 25 points. The Sibiu-based club showed resilience in their final regular-season fixture, securing a convincing 2-0 victory against FCSB. That win provided a morale boost heading into these high-stakes playoff encounters, proving they can compete with the league’s elite.

Conversely, FC Voluntari arrives from Liga 2, where they finished third in the second tier. The Ilfov county representatives are riding high after a dominant 4-2 victory over Steaua in the final round of their playoffs. Their offensive prowess in the lower division will be tested against Hermannstadt’s defensive organization in this critical two-legged tie.

The two sides last met in March 2024, during a SuperLiga play-out match. On that occasion, FC Voluntari edged out a narrow 1-0 win on their home turf. The historical context suggests a tightly contested affair, with both teams aware of the stakes involved in this direct confrontation.

Dennis Politic Returns to FCSB

A significant off-field development surrounds Dennis Politic, the former Dinamo Bucharest captain. Claudiu Rotar, the owner of FC Hermannstadt, has confirmed that Politic will return to FCSB upon the expiration of his loan deal. The option for an extended loan has been firmly ruled out by the Sibiu ownership.

Politic’s stint in Sibiu was marred by a serious injury sustained in March, which kept him sidelined for a considerable period. When fit, his presence was notable, but his overall impact was limited. He made only eight appearances for Hermannstadt, contributing a single assist. Rotar cited financial reasons for the decision, noting that the player’s substantial salary of 20,000 euros per month is split between the two clubs.

“No, no, no. He is on loan from FCSB and will return there,” Rotar stated explicitly regarding any potential extension. “No, his salary is quite high; we share it fifty-fifty with FCSB.” The transfer deal originally saw FCSB pay 970,000 euros for Politic, along with the inclusion of 21-year-old Alexandru Musi in the exchange. As Politic prepares to rejoin his parent club, Hermannstadt must now look to their remaining squad depth to navigate the playoff challenges ahead.