Crisul Santandrei 2-1 AFC Unirea Tasnad
Romanian Cup – Preliminary Round
29 July 2026, 22:30 local time

Crisul Santandrei edged past AFC Unirea Tasnad 2-1 in a fiercely contested cup tie that saw the home side come from behind to secure victory. The win sends Santandrei into the next phase of the Romanian Cup.

Match Narrative

The visitors started brightly and took a shock lead in the 18th minute. A swift break down the left flank saw the Unirea Tasnad winger deliver a precise cross that was volleyed home by the onrushing midfielder. Santandrei looked rattled but gradually found their rhythm as the first half progressed.

The equaliser came just before half‑time. A defensive error from Tasnad allowed Santandrei’s forward to nip in and round the goalkeeper before slotting into an empty net. The second half was a tense affair, with both sides battling for control in midfield. The winning goal arrived in the 72nd minute when Santandrei’s captain rose highest at a corner kick to power a header past the Tasnad keeper.

Key Moments

• Early shock: Unirea Tasnad’s opener silenced the home crowd and showed their counter‑attacking threat.
• Quick response: Santandrei’s equaliser just before the break shifted momentum.
• Set‑piece winner: A well‑practiced corner routine decided the match, highlighting the importance of dead‑ball situations.

Standout Players

Crisul Santandrei’s central defender was a rock at the back and also scored the winning goal. For Unirea Tasnad, the left winger who created the opening goal was their most dangerous player, though he faded in the second half as Santandrei’s full‑back tightened up.

What’s Next?

Crisul Santandrei will look forward to the next round, where they could face a stronger opponent. The narrow win will give them belief that they can compete against teams from higher divisions. Unirea Tasnad can be proud of their effort but will be disappointed not to have held on for a replay or extra time.