CSA Steaua București kicked off their 2026 pre-season campaign in emphatic style, cruising to a comfortable 3-0 victory over Liga II side Tunari in an International Club Friendly match played on July 15, 2026. The encounter, staged behind closed doors at the club’s training base, offered Steaua’s new-look squad a chance to sharpen their attacking patterns and build early fitness ahead of the upcoming competitive season.

Match Overview

The friendly, scheduled for 16:00 local time, was the first test for both teams as they prepared for their respective domestic campaigns. Steaua, historically Romania’s most decorated club, fielded a mix of experienced first-team players and promising academy graduates. Tunari, a side steadily making its mark in the second tier, came to test themselves against top-flight opposition. From the opening whistle, Steaua imposed their authority, controlling possession and creating a steady stream of chances. The 3-0 scoreline reflected a dominant display, though Tunari showed resilience in patches.

Key Moments

• 13th minute – 1-0: Steaua’s central midfielder, a recent signing from the domestic top flight, received a short corner on the edge of the box, took a touch, and lashed a low drive into the bottom corner. The goalkeeper got a hand to it but could not keep it out.
• 38th minute – 2-0: A well-worked move down the left flank saw the left-back overlap and deliver a precise cross. The striker rose highest at the near post to guide a header into the far side of the net – a textbook finish that put Steaua firmly in control before halftime.
• 72nd minute – 3-0: After a period of sustained pressure, Steaua’s number 10 collected a pass in the half-space, turned quickly, and played a perfectly weighted through ball. The substitute striker, fresh from the bench, slotted calmly past the advancing keeper to cap off the scoring.

Tactical Story

Steaua lined up in a 4-3-3 formation, aiming to dominate through midfield numbers and full-back width. Their high press forced Tunari into frequent errors during the first half, with the opposition unable to maintain sustained spells of possession. Tunari attempted to counter through quick transitions, but Steaua’s defensive line, well-drilled and compact, snuffed out any danger before it developed. The second half saw Steaua rotate heavily, introducing academy talents and fringe players, yet the tactical discipline remained intact. Tunari had their best chance in the 65th minute when a long-range effort forced a diving save from the Steaua goalkeeper, but otherwise they rarely threatened.

Standout Players

• Steaua’s new signing (midfielder): Opened the scoring with a clinical strike and dictated the tempo from deep-lying positions. His range of passing and ability to break lines was a constant source of trouble for Tunari.
• Steaua’s left-back: Provided the assist for the second goal and overlapped relentlessly down the flank. His energy and crossing delivery were key to stretching the Tunari defence.
• Tunari’s centre-back: Despite the scoreline, the central defender made several last-ditch clearances and aerial interceptions, preventing a potentially larger defeat for his side.

Season Impact and Context

For Steaua, this result continues a positive buildup under their coaching staff as they aim to challenge for honours in the upcoming season. The 3-0 victory provides a confidence boost and allows the manager to evaluate squad depth. Tunari, meanwhile, can take lessons from the match, particularly in defending set‑pieces and transitions, as they prepare for their own league campaign. While friendlies carry no competitive weight, the performance reaffirmed Steaua’s status as a team that can dominate possession and kill off opponents early. The club will now look ahead to further friendlies and the start of the domestic season.

Overall, this International Club Friendly served its purpose: both sides gained valuable match sharpness, and Steaua gave their supporters a glimpse of a potentially exciting line‑up for 2026–27.