In a crucial Liga II encounter at the Stadionul Ceahlăul, Ceahlaul Piatra Neamt fell to a narrow 2-1 defeat against Afumati on Saturday evening. The result delivered a significant blow to Ceahlaul's promotion aspirations while providing a vital three points for the visitors in their own campaign. The match began with the home side asserting their authority, taking a deserved lead midway through the first half after a well-worked team move was finished calmly. However, Afumati showed resilience and managed to equalize just before the halftime whistle, capitalizing on a defensive lapse to head in from a corner. The second half was a tense, scrappy affair with both teams fighting for control. The decisive moment arrived in the 78th minute when Afumati won a penalty after a clumsy challenge in the box. The spot-kick was converted with conviction, handing the visitors the lead. Ceahlaul threw everything forward in search of a second equalizer, but Afumati's defense held firm through several minutes of added time to secure a hard-fought away victory. The defeat leaves Ceahlaul Piatra Neamt in a precarious position in the league table, potentially dropping them out of the promotion playoff spots depending on other results. For Afumati, this win provides a crucial boost in their battle to move clear of the relegation zone. The home manager lamented his team's inability to protect their lead, stating, "We controlled the game for long periods but switched off at key moments. At this level, you are punished." The visiting coach praised his team's character, saying, "The belief never left us. To come from behind here shows the spirit in this squad."