ACS CIL Blaj Triumph in Seven-Goal Thriller Over Universitatea Alba Iulia

In a Romanian Cup classic on July 29, 2026, ACS CIL Blaj edged Universitatea Alba Iulia 4-3 in a dramatic encounter that had everything: early goals, a red card, and a late winner. The match at the Stadionul Cetate kicked off at 22:30 and quickly became one of the most exciting ties of the round.

Match Overview

Local rivals Universitatea Alba Iulia and ACS CIL Blaj served up a goal-fest for the fans. Both sides showed attacking intent from the start, resulting in a frantic first half that ended 2-2. The second half continued at the same blistering pace, with Blaj eventually emerging victorious.

Key Moments

• Rapid exchanges: The first goal came in the 6th minute when Blaj’s striker finished a quick move. Alba Iulia equalized within two minutes through a penalty. The momentum swung again with Blaj taking a 2-1 lead, only for the hosts to level again before half-time (25', 31', 42').
• Turning Point: Universitatea Alba Iulia were reduced to ten men in the 55th minute after a second yellow card for a reckless challenge. Despite the disadvantage, they took a 3-2 lead in the 63rd minute through a fantastic free-kick.
• Blaj’s Resilience: Down but not out, ACS CIL Blaj equalized in the 78th minute via a goalmouth scramble. With the extra man telling, they pushed for a winner and found it in the 88th minute when a cross was turned home by a substitute.
• Dramatic Finish: Alba Iulia threw everyone forward in stoppage time but could not find an equalizer. Blaj held on for a famous away win.

Standout Players

Blaj’s striker scored a brace and was a constant threat, while the substitute who scored the winner will be remembered as the hero. For Alba Iulia, the player who scored the free-kick showed great technique despite the eventual loss.

Impact on the Cup

This seven-goal thriller will be remembered as one of the best matches of the Romanian Cup’s early rounds. ACS CIL Blaj now advance, while Universitatea Alba Iulia will bitterly regret the red card that changed the game. The result demonstrates that cup football can produce high drama even at the lower levels of Romanian football.