The Shock of the Return

Can you believe it? The Superliga has a new face, and the old guard is shaking their heads in disbelief. Anghel Iordănescu, the 76-year-old legend and former national team boss, was left speechless by the sheer spectacle of FC Voluntari’s promotion. After a two-year exile, Voluntari stormed back into the top flight, dismantling CSU Hermannstadt with a 3-0 victory in the second leg and a 5-3 aggregate score on Monday, June 1.

This wasn’t just a win; it was a statement. Iordănescu, who has seen it all, admitted he “almost couldn’t believe” two teams fighting for survival could produce such breathtaking football. Voluntari didn’t just scrape by; they dominated. They controlled the tempo, seized possession, and created chances at will. Iordănescu heaped praise on technical staff lead by Florin Pârvu and the players, calling it a victory truly earned.

More Than Just a Scoreboard

But let’s be clear: this victory carried weight. The match wasn’t without controversy, with Hermannstadt’s coach Dorinel Munteanu questioning the refereeing. Yet, on the pitch, Voluntari was the undisputed master. Iordănescu pointed out that Voluntari rose far above the level of their opponents, not just in the final score but in the quality of play. He even credited the local mayor, Florentin Pandele, whose vision likely fueled the team’s relentless drive to return to the first division.

Florin Pârvu, the 51-year-old architect of this comeback, was emotional but grounded. “It’s their victory,” he said, emphasizing the grueling work ethic required in Liga 2. He dismissed any notion that the second tier is easy, highlighting how his squad executed their game plan to perfection. The fans? They flooded the pitch in a sea of celebration, a scene Pârvu hopes will repeat in the Superliga. “We need their support,” he urged, knowing the future of the club depends on that electric connection.

The New Lineup

So, who makes the cut? Farul Constanța holds its ground, surviving the playoff pressure. Alongside Voluntari, the new faces in the Superliga are Corvinul Hunedoara and Sepsi Sf. Gheorghe, the latter returning after just a one-year hiatus. The stage is set, the players are ready, and the drama is just beginning. Welcome back to the big league, Voluntari.