Sunday evening will see the decisive match between Universitatea Craiova and "U" Cluj, which could determine the champion of the current season. With 46 points currently, the Oltenians could reach 49 points and secure a four-point lead over the Transylvanians if they triumph in the penultimate stage of the Superliga playoffs.
In the playoff round, "U" Cluj defeated Universitatea Craiova 4-0. Now, however, the match carries enormous weight. If the Oltenians do not win, the title will remain in contention until the final stage next week.
Florin Prunea Sparks Pre-Championship Final Tension: "No One Expected This"
Florin Prunea, former Romanian international, explained that the moment when the Oltenians failed to progress from the group stage of the UEFA Conference League this season was a pivotal moment in the team's league performance. Universitatea Craiova has since made significant strides in the Superliga and even won the Cup after defeating "U" Cluj on penalties.
"Filipe Coelho has brought calm to the team. Craiova is a reborn team from the suffering in Athens."
"That was a strong shock. But it showed the club's strength, in my view. They did not give up. The signal that came from the top down, from the first to the last, was very clear."
"That could have overwhelmed them, but it didn't. They came together and moved forward."
"But we mustn't forget the second half of the Cup final, where 'U' Cluj played better than Craiova. Let's remember Mendy's chance, which could have decided the match."
"'U' Cluj has a beautiful story; they are not under pressure. No one expected 'U' Cluj to be in a championship final. But think about the pressure if it doesn't go as they wish. I see immense pressure, unlike before," Prunea told Digi Sport.
Craiova's been on a wild ride this season, but Cluj's story is just as compelling. Will the pressure get to them? And can Craiova pull off another upset like in the cup? This final is gonna be electric!