With goals from Chorbadzhiyski and Buș, Hermannstadt avoids direct relegation and prepares for a key playoff against FC Voluntari
Category: Sports
In a decisive match on May 18, 2026, Hermannstadt triumphed over FCSB with a score of 2-0, thanks to goals from Bozhidar Chorbadzhiyski and Sergiu Buș. This victory secured Hermannstadt's place in the promotion/relegation playoff, allowing them to avoid direct relegation from Romania's Superliga.
The match, held at the '1 Mai' stadium in Sibiu, was a must-win for Hermannstadt, who needed to secure points to stave off relegation. FCSB, on the other hand, was fielding an experimental lineup to protect key players ahead of their upcoming playoff against FC Botoșani for a spot in the UEFA Conference League.
Hermannstadt opened the scoring in the 38th minute when Chorbadzhiyski capitalized on a corner kick, heading the ball past FCSB goalkeeper Andrei Târnovanu. The assist came from Cristian Neguț, who delivered a precise corner that caught the FCSB defense off guard. This goal was particularly important as it set the tone for the remainder of the match.
As the second half progressed, FCSB struggled to find their rhythm, failing to score for the third consecutive match. Their last goal came in a previous game against Csikszereda, and the pressure was mounting as they sought to redeem themselves. FCSB’s tactical choices seemed to backfire, as they were unable to convert their chances into goals.
In the 70th minute, Hermannstadt doubled their lead when Buș scored following another assist from Neguț, who delivered a beautiful cross that Buș skillfully redirected into the net. This goal solidified Hermannstadt's advantage and highlighted their effective offensive strategy.
Throughout the match, FCSB received two yellow cards, with Thiam booked in the 40th minute and Lixandru in the 57th minute. Hermannstadt's Ciubotaru and Zargary also received yellow cards at the end of the first half and during the second half, respectively. The match concluded with a final score of 2-0, and Hermannstadt celebrated a much-needed victory.
This match was the final round of the Superliga play-out phase, where teams fight to avoid relegation. Hermannstadt entered the game knowing they had to win to secure their safety in the top tier of Romanian football. They had previously faced a challenging season, with their performance fluctuating and the threat of relegation hanging over them.
Meanwhile, FCSB had been struggling with a lack of scoring, having not found the back of the net in their last three matches, including this one. Their tactical decision to field a less experienced side was aimed at preserving their key players for the upcoming playoff against FC Botoșani, scheduled for May 24, 2026. This match will be a semifinal playoff for a spot in the UEFA Conference League, adding extra pressure to FCSB as they attempt to salvage their season.
Hermannstadt's victory lifted them out of the immediate relegation zone and set the stage for a playoff against FC Voluntari. The stakes are high for both teams as they vie for a place in the Superliga. The upcoming matches are scheduled for May 23-24 for the first leg, with the return leg set for May 30 to June 1.
Looking ahead, Hermannstadt will face FC Voluntari in the relegation playoff, a situation that will require them to maintain their momentum from this match. The first leg of the playoff is set for May 23, 2026, providing Hermannstadt with a chance to secure their status in the Superliga.
FCSB, meanwhile, will face FC Botoșani in the Conference League playoff semifinal on May 24, where they will need to overcome their recent scoring woes. Coach Marius Baciu is expected to lead the team, though club owner Gigi Becali has publicly stated he will influence team decisions and strategies during this high-stakes match.
The outcome of these upcoming matches will greatly impact the future of both clubs. For Hermannstadt, success in the playoff could mean continued participation in the top tier of Romanian football, whereas FCSB is under pressure to qualify for European competition, which has become a benchmark for their performance in recent years.
As the season concludes, the implications of these matches extend beyond mere statistics; they represent the aspirations and struggles of clubs vying for recognition and survival in the competitive world of Romanian football.
The match on May 18 was attended by 2,613 spectators, who witnessed a thrilling contest that will be remembered as a turning point for Hermannstadt as they aim to solidify their place in the Superliga.