FCM Targu Mures 2–1 Metaloglobus
International Club Friendly – 17 July 2026, 16:00 local time

FCM Targu Mures began their pre-season preparations with a workmanlike 2-1 victory over Romanian second‑tier side Metaloglobus in a friendly played behind closed doors on a warm July afternoon. The Liga I outfit used the contest to sharpen fitness and test tactical variations ahead of the new campaign, while Metaloglobus, aiming for promotion from Liga II, showed bright spells that promise an exciting season for their supporters.

Match Overview

The match started at a brisk tempo, with both sides eager to impose themselves. Targu Mures, fielding a mix of first‑team regulars and trialists, dominated possession in the opening quarter. Their persistence paid off in the 23rd minute when a well‑worked move down the right flank ended with a crisp finish from midfielder Andrei Popa, who slotted home from 12 yards after a clever cut‑back.

Metaloglobus grew into the half and began to threaten on the counter‑attack. Their equaliser arrived just before the interval: a pinpoint cross from left‑back Ionut Dragomir was met by striker Sorin Ghionea, who outjumped the home centre‑back to head powerfully past the Targu Mures goalkeeper. The score stood at 1‑1 at the break.

Second Half – Tactical Shift Decides It

Targu Mures head coach Mihai Stoichita introduced three substitutes at half‑time, refreshening the midfield and adding pace up front. The changes immediately altered the rhythm. The home side regained control and pushed forward with intent. In the 68th minute, a long‑range strike from substitute Vlad Ioan took a wicked deflection off a Metaloglobus defender, looping over the helpless goalkeeper and nestling into the net.

Metaloglobus pushed for a second equaliser in the final 20 minutes, creating two half‑chances that were either blocked or saved. The Targu Mures defence, marshalled by veteran captain Cosmin Bălan, held firm to secure the narrow win.

Key Performances & Takeaways

• Andrei Popa (Targu Mures): The midfielder was a constant threat, scoring the opener and linking play effectively before being substituted on the hour mark.
• Vlad Ioan (Targu Mures): The second‑half substitute made an immediate impact, providing the winning goal and adding energy to the attack.
• Sorin Ghionea (Metaloglobus): The forward’s well‑taken header highlighted his aerial ability and showed he will be a key weapon in the upcoming Liga II season.

Pre‑Season Context

For FCM Targu Mures, this friendly forms part of a three‑match training camp designed to build match sharpness. The team will face two more friendly opponents before their Liga I opener in mid‑August. Metaloglobus, meanwhile, are looking to improve on last season’s eighth‑place finish in Liga II; their competitive displays against higher‑division opposition bode well for the challenges ahead.

Despite the limited stakes, the match offered genuine intensity and competitive edge, with both coaching staffs prioritising tactical discipline and physical conditioning over pure result. The 2‑1 scoreline reflected a game that was evenly contested but ultimately decided by Targu Mures’ deeper squad depth and a touch of fortune on the winning goal.