FC Argeș and Rapid București squared off in a play-off match, a clash between the bottom two teams. The match took place in Mioveni.
Teams Seek to Improve Play-off Performance
Rapid, with slim chances of securing a Conference League spot, aimed to redeem themselves after a disappointing play-off performance. Without a win since 14 March, Rapid needed a victory against FC Argeș to maintain any hope of reaching fourth position, currently held by Dinamo.
FC Argeș, after a series of losses, sought their second play-off win. A victory would propel them to fifth place, surpassing their opponents.
The match marked Argeș’s final home game of the season. Despite recent setbacks, the team had exceeded expectations by qualifying for the play-off and reaching the cup semi-finals.
Team Lineups and Management’s Views
FC Argeș Pitești’s starting lineup included Straton, Tofan, Tudose, Sadriu and Borța. Rădescu, Rață, Blagaic, Idowu, Matos and Bettaieb also started. Bogdan Andone coached the team.
Rapid București fielded Aioani, Onea, D. Ciobotariu, Pașcanu and Sălceanu. The lineup also featured Christensen, K. Keita, Grameni, Moruțan, D. Paraschiv and Borza. Constantin Gâlcă managed Rapid, facing significant squad issues with eight players unavailable.
Alex Dobre, who captained the team for most of the season, started on the bench. Borza was in the starting eleven on the left side of the attack, an unusual position for the defender.
Bogdan Andone stated, ‘It will be the last game at home this season. We will have to have an aggressive approach, a positive attitude and win the game, because it would be extremely nice to enjoy the end of the game, together with the supporters, of this extraordinary season of the team.’
‘That is why we must be very well prepared physically, mentally prepared, from all points of view, and approach the game with only one thought, that of winning,’ Andone added.
Match Officials
The match officials included George Cătălin Roman as the main referee. Alexandru Filip and Ionuț Traian Neacșu were the assistant referees. Horia Mladinovici was the VAR referee, assisted by Andrei Antonie. Cătălin Busi served as the fourth official, and Corneliu Fecioru was the referee observer.
Previous Encounter
The reverse fixture between the two sides ended in a goalless draw.
Argeș aimed to conclude their season on a high note in front of their supporters.