CS Universitatea Craiova delivered a commanding performance in their international club friendly against CSM Slatina, securing a 4-0 victory at Stadionul 1 Mai on October 4, 2026. The Liga I giants showcased their attacking depth and clinical finishing, overwhelming their hosts with a dominant display that will serve as a strong confidence boost ahead of their domestic commitments.

Match Overview

From the opening whistle, Universitatea Craiova imposed their will on the game, controlling possession and pinning CSM Slatina deep in their own half. The visitors opened the scoring early and never looked back, adding a second before the break to take a comfortable 2-0 lead into halftime. After the interval, Craiova continued to dictate the tempo, scoring twice more to complete a resounding 4-0 win. The friendly, played in front of a lively crowd in Slatina, offered both sides a valuable opportunity to test their squad depth and tactical setups during a mid-season international break.

Key Moments

• 12th minute: Alexandru Mitriță opened the scoring with a trademark composed finish, latching onto a through ball and slotting past the onrushing goalkeeper.
• 34th minute: Elvir Koljić doubled the lead with a powerful header from a well-delivered corner, rising above the defence to convert.
• 58th minute: Ștefan Baiaram made it 3-0 with a low, driven effort from the edge of the box after a neat exchange on the right flank.
• 79th minute: Jovan Marković rounded off the scoring from the penalty spot after a foul inside the area, sending the keeper the wrong way.

Tactical Story

Universitatea Craiova lined up in a fluid 4-3-3, with a high pressing line that suffocated CSM Slatina's attempts to build from the back. The midfield trio of Alexandru Cicaldau, Vladimir Screciu, and Ștefan Baiaram controlled the rhythm, frequently switching play and creating overloads in wide areas. Slatina, deploying a 4-2-3-1, struggled to maintain possession and were often forced into long clearances. Craiova's full-backs pushed high, effectively turning the match into a half-court exercise. Defensively, the visitors were barely troubled, with the back four maintaining a disciplined offside trap and limiting the hosts to a handful of speculative efforts. The second half saw Craiova introduce fresh legs, but the pattern remained unchanged: relentless pressure, quick combinations, and ruthless finishing.

Standout Players

Alexandru Mitriță was the standout performer, constantly troubling the Slatina defence with his dribbling and movement. His opening goal set the tone, and he remained a creative force throughout his time on the pitch. Elvir Koljić provided a focal point in attack, winning aerial duels and linking play effectively, capped by his headed goal. Ștefan Baiaram was energetic and direct, adding a goal and an assist to his name. For CSM Slatina, goalkeeper Răzvan Began made several saves to keep the scoreline from becoming even more lopsided, while captain Mihai Răduț worked tirelessly in midfield despite limited service.

Season Impact and What’s Next

For Universitatea Craiova, this friendly served as an ideal tune-up, allowing the coaching staff to assess fringe players and fine-tune tactical patterns before returning to Liga I action. The convincing win will boost morale and reinforce the squad's confidence in their attacking philosophy. For CSM Slatina, the defeat highlights the gap between Romania's top flight and the lower divisions, but the experience of facing such quality opposition is invaluable for player development. Both teams will now turn their attention back to their respective league campaigns, with Craiova aiming for a strong finish in Liga I and Slatina focused on climbing their division's standings.

Final Score

CSM Slatina 0–4 CS Universitatea Craiova

Goals: Mitriță (12'), Koljić (34'), Baiaram (58'), Marković (79' pen.)