CSM Ramnicu Valcea pushed fellow Romanian side Chindia Targoviste all the way in a tense Romanian Cup encounter on August 18, 2026, eventually falling in a penalty shootout after the match finished 1-1 in regulation time. The 22:30 kickoff at a lively home venue produced a hard-fought cup tie that was ultimately decided by the lottery of spot-kicks.

Closely Contested from Start to Finish

Neither team was willing to take unnecessary risks in the opening exchanges, leading to a cautious first half in which possession was shared almost equally. Chindia Targoviste, with their higher-league pedigree, enjoyed more territorial advantage but found CSM Ramnicu Valcea’s defensive block difficult to break down. The hosts, for their part, looked dangerous on the break and created two half-chances that gave their supporters hope.

The deadlock was finally broken after the interval. Chindia took the lead when a well-placed corner was headed in at the far post. Rather than shrinking, CSM Ramnicu Valcea responded within minutes, equalizing through a penalty after a handball inside the area. That goal changed the dynamic, and the match opened up considerably, with both goalkeepers called into action during a frantic final 30 minutes.

The Penalty Drama

With the score still 1-1 after 90 minutes, the tie went straight to penalties. The shootout was as tight as the match itself, with each team converting their opening two kicks. The turning point came when CSM Ramnicu Valcea’s fourth taker saw his effort saved by the Chindia goalkeeper. Chindia Targoviste then coolly dispatched their final spot-kick to complete a 4-2 shootout victory.

Key Moments

• 31' – Half-chance for CSM: a header from a cross goes just wide of the post.
• 54' – Chindia open the scoring: a powerful header from a corner.
• 61' – CSM equalize: a calm penalty levels the match.
• 75' – Chindia hit the bar: a curling effort beats the keeper but not the woodwork.
• Penalties: Chindia Targoviste advance 4-2.

Analysis and Reaction

CSM Ramnicu Valcea can be proud of their performance, having matched a higher-division opponent over the full duration of the match. Their disciplined display was a testament to their organization and fighting spirit. Chindia Targoviste, meanwhile, got the job done in regulation time and showed composure when it mattered most. They will now look ahead to the next round of the Romanian Cup with growing confidence.