Scolar Resita produced one of the shocks of the Romanian Cup round on August 18, 2026, holding top-flight Petrolul Ploiesti to a 2-2 draw before advancing in a dramatic penalty shootout. The lower-division hosts showed tremendous character at 22:30, twice coming from behind to force the tie to spot-kicks, where they held their nerve to send Petrolul crashing out.

Cup Giant-Killing in the Making

With Romanian Cup ties always carrying the potential for an upset, Petrolul Ploiesti were expected to control proceedings against their lower-tier opponents. They began the match accordingly, taking the lead in the first half after a well-worked move down the left ended with a first-time finish. Scolar Resita, however, were undaunted. They grew into the game as the half progressed, pressing higher and forcing Petrolul into uncharacteristic mistakes.

The equalizer arrived early in the second half when a deep throw-in was flicked on and turned past the Petrolul goalkeeper from six yards out. The joy was short-lived, as Petrolul restored their advantage with a trademark counter-attack. Yet again, Scolar Resita responded, this time with a stunning long-range strike that flew into the top corner and sparked wild celebrations among the home supporters.

Penalties Decided It

With the score locked at 2-2 after 90 minutes, the tie moved to penalties. Petrolul shot first and initially looked in control, but a miss from their third taker swung the momentum. Scolar Resita kept their composure, converting all of their attempts, and their goalkeeper capped a man-of-the-match display with a crucial save low to his right to seal a famous victory.

Turning Points and Standout Players

• 28' – Petrolul take the lead: a neat move and a precise finish from inside the box.
• 56' – Scolar Resita equalize: a scrappy goal from close range after a set-piece.
• 68' – Petrolul strike again: a lightning counter-attack is finished clinically.
• 79' – Scolar Resita level again: an outstanding strike from 25 yards.
• Penalties: Scolar Resita win 4-3 after Petrolul’s third spot-kick misses.

What This Result Means

For Scolar Resita, this result represents a historic achievement and one of the finest nights in the club’s recent history. Petrolul Ploiesti, meanwhile, face an early exit from a competition they would have harbored ambitions of winning. The Romanian Cup is known for its surprises, and this match will be remembered as one of its most thrilling ties of the season.