In a surprising turn of events at the Romania Basketball Cup, BC Steaua Bucuresti suffered a 75-98 home defeat to Corona Brasov on October 1, 2026. Corona Brasov delivered a clinical performance, dominating the second half and handing Steaua one of their heaviest cup losses in recent memory.

Match Overview

The game started evenly, with Steaua holding a narrow 22-21 lead after the first quarter. However, Corona Brasov seized control in the second period, using a 12-2 run to build a 45-38 halftime advantage. The third quarter proved decisive: Brasov outscored Steaua 30-18, capitalizing on turnovers and second-chance points. Steaua never recovered, and the visitors cruised to a 23-point victory. Corona Brasov shot 52% from the field and 44% from beyond the arc, while Steaua managed just 39% overall and committed 18 turnovers.

Key Moments

• Second-quarter spark: Brasov’s bench provided a huge lift, scoring 15 points in the period, including three consecutive three-pointers.
• Third-quarter breakaway: A 14-0 run midway through the third turned a seven-point lead into a 21-point cushion.
• Steaua’s drought: The home side went nearly five minutes without a field goal late in the third, effectively sealing their fate.
• Clutch free throws: Brasov knocked down 16 of 18 free throws in the fourth quarter to keep Steaua at bay.

Standout Performers

Corona Brasov’s offense was led by shooting guard Radu Cojocaru, who poured in 26 points on 9-of-14 shooting, including 5 three-pointers. Forward Bogdan Ilie added a double-double with 18 points and 11 rebounds. Steaua’s top scorer was Andrei Vasile with 17 points, but he received little help; the rest of the starting lineup combined for just 28 points on 10-of-31 shooting. Steaua’s center, Tudor Enache, struggled with foul trouble and was limited to 8 points and 5 rebounds.

What It Means

The loss leaves BC Steaua Bucuresti in a precarious position in the Romania Basketball Cup, and it raises questions about their defensive consistency. Corona Brasov, on the other hand, strengthens their case as a dark-horse contender. Their balanced attack and disciplined execution on the road will make them a tough out in the next round. Steaua must quickly address their turnover issues and find secondary scoring options if they hope to advance deep in the competition.