Chindia Targoviste edged Concordia Chiajna 3-2 in a thrilling Romanian Liga II encounter on Saturday afternoon, with a late goal settling a match that swung back and forth throughout. The win lifts Chindia into the top three and adds another dramatic chapter to their push for promotion.

Five-goal thriller at Stadionul Eugen Popescu

The home side started brightly and took the lead in the 22nd minute when Alexandru Buzi finished off a sweeping team move. Concordia responded well and equalised in the 30th minute through Marius Alexe, who capitalised on a defensive mix-up. Chindia restored their advantage just before half-time when Daniel Popescu scored from a free-kick in first-half stoppage time. The visitors came out strong after the break and levelled again in the 67th minute through Andrei Bălan, setting up a tense finale.

Key moments and turning points

The decisive moment came in the 81st minute. Chindia won the ball high up the pitch, and Cristian Negru drove into the box before firing a low shot into the bottom corner. Concordia pushed for a late equaliser, but Chindia’s defence stood tall, clearing several dangerous crosses. The home crowd erupted at the final whistle, knowing how important the three points could be in a tight promotion race.

Tactical story

Chindia deployed a 4-3-3 system, looking to overload the flanks and deliver early crosses. Concordia Chiajna sat deeper and tried to hit on the counter, using the pace of Alexe and Bălan. The visitors had success when they moved the ball quickly, but they struggled to contain Chindia’s midfield trio, who won most second balls. Chindia’s full-backs were particularly influential, constantly pushing forward and creating numerical advantages.

Standout performers

• Alexandru Buzi (Chindia Targoviste): Opened the scoring and was a constant threat with his dribbling.
• Daniel Popescu (Chindia Targoviste): Scored a crucial free-kick and controlled the tempo in midfield.
• Marius Alexe (Concordia Chiajna): Scored one and was involved in most of his team’s best attacks.

Season impact

Chindia Targoviste move up to third in the Liga II table, two points behind the automatic promotion spots. The win maintains their momentum and strengthens their credentials as genuine promotion contenders. Concordia Chiajna remain in mid-table, five points adrift of the play-off places, and will rue missed chances in a game they could have drawn. Both teams now turn their attention to midweek fixtures, with Chindia hosting Cetate Suceava and Concordia travelling to CSM Satu Mare.