CSM Râmnicu Vâlcea produced a memorable away performance in Bucharest, coming from behind to defeat CSA Steaua București 2–1 in a competitive Romanian Liga II clash at the Ghencea stadium. The result gave the visitors a huge early-season statement, while the home side were left to rue missed opportunities in front of their own supporters.

Match overview

Steaua started brightly on home soil and looked to impose themselves from the first whistle. Their early pressure paid off when they took the lead just before the half-hour mark, finishing calmly after a well-worked move down the right flank. The goal galvanised the hosts, who controlled possession for long spells and appeared comfortable heading into the break.

However, Râmnicu Vâlcea showed great character after the interval. They abandoned their passive approach, pushed higher up the pitch, and began winning the second balls in midfield. The equaliser arrived shortly after the hour mark, after a swift counter-attack punished Steaua's high defensive line. With confidence growing, the visitors found the winning goal midway through the half, converting from a set-piece situation that exposed Steaua's zonal marking.

Key moments

• Steaua's opener: A well-timed run behind the defence and a composed finish put the hosts ahead.
• Râmnicu Vâlcea's equaliser: A clinical counter-attack restored parity and shifted the momentum.
• Winning goal: A header / scrambled finish from a corner gave the visitors a deserved lead.
• Late pressure: Steaua pushed for an equaliser but met stubborn defending and a disciplined offside trap.

Tactical story

Steaua's early success was built on possession and width, with their full-backs providing constant overloads. Yet their lack of depth in midfield became evident as the game wore on. Râmnicu Vâlcea coach adjusted by switching to a more compact 4-4-2 shape, allowing the wide players to double up on Steaua's main creators. The visitors' direct approach and willingness to commit men forward on the transition proved decisive.

Season impact

The defeat marked a difficult start for Steaua, who are widely considered among the promotion favourites this term. For Râmnicu Vâlcea, the three points provide a perfect platform to build upon, showing they can compete with the division's heavyweight clubs on their own turf. Both sides will be eager to maintain consistency as the early Liga II standings begin to take shape.