CFR Cluj vs FC Botosani: Match Report

CFR Cluj delivered a dominant 3-1 victory over FC Botosani in the Romanian Super Liga on Saturday, 19 September 2026. A hat-trick from Andrei Popa powered the home side to three points at Dr. Constantin Rădulescu Stadium, keeping them firmly in the title race.

CFR controlled large spells of the match, but Botosani made it uncomfortable at times with a spirited response. In the end, the hosts’ superior quality in the final third made the difference.

Match Overview

CFR Cluj opened the scoring in the 18th minute when Andrei Popa finished off a sweeping move down the left. Botosani equalised against the run of play in the 39th minute through Alexandru Dobre, who capitalised on a defensive lapse.

The second half was a different story. Popa restored CFR’s lead in the 63rd minute with a fine individual effort, and he completed his hat-trick in the 88th minute, converting a late penalty after a foul in the box.

Key Moments

• 18' – Andrei Popa opens the scoring for CFR Cluj.
• 39' – Alexandru Dobre equalises for FC Botosani.
• 63' – Popa scores his second to put CFR back in front.
• 88' – Popa completes his hat-trick from the penalty spot.

Tactical Story

CFR Cluj lined up in a 4-2-3-1 and dominated possession, with their full-backs pushing high to create overloads. Botosani sat deep and looked to counter, which worked briefly for their equaliser. However, CFR’s midfield kept recycling the ball and eventually wore down the visitors’ resistance.

The introduction of fresh legs on the wings in the second half stretched Botosani’s defence, and Popa’s movement between the lines became increasingly difficult to track.

Standout Players

Andrei Popa was the undisputed star of the show, scoring three goals and leading the line with intelligence. CFR’s captain controlled the tempo in midfield, while Botosani’s Alexandru Dobre was their most dangerous outlet, taking his goal well.

Romanian Super Liga Table Impact

The win keeps CFR Cluj within touching distance of the top of the Super Liga table, reinforcing their reputation as one of the league’s most consistent forces. FC Botosani remain in mid-table, capable of causing upsets but still searching for the consistency needed to challenge for European places. For CFR, this was a statement performance in front of their home supporters.