U Cluj Stages Second-Half Comeback to Defeat CFR 3-1 in Gruia Derby

Universitatea Cluj secured a vital 3-1 victory over CFR Cluj in the Gruia derby on October 9, 2026, demonstrating resilience after falling behind early in the contest. The win marked the third consecutive triumph for U Cluj, reinforcing their status as serious contenders in Liga I. Following the result, Universitatea Cluj moved to fifth position in the standings with 18 points, sitting just five points behind the league leaders, while CFR Cluj dropped to eighth place with 13 points.

CFR Cluj took an early advantage when Andrei Cordea scored in the 12th minute, giving the visitors a lead that they maintained until halftime. However, Universitatea Cluj responded strongly in the second half, with Macalou scoring two goals in quick succession to turn the tide of the match. Macalou’s first strike came in the 51st minute, followed by Mendy’s goal in the 55th minute, which was assisted by Jovo Lukic. This sequence of events effectively dismantled CFR’s early advantage and shifted momentum firmly in favor of the home side.

Jovo Lukic was instrumental in the turnaround, providing the assist for Mendy’s goal and earning recognition as the man of the match. Flashscore awarded Lukic a rating of 7.6 for his performance, highlighting his impact on the game. Prima Sport also noted Lukic as a standout player for Universitatea Cluj during the derby, underscoring his pivotal role in securing the three points for his team.

Universitatea Cluj manager Cristiano Bergodi attributed the comeback to his team's improved mindset after the break. He stated that his squad displayed greater determination in the second half compared to the opening period. Basarab Panduru echoed this sentiment, praising Bergodi’s substitutions as key factors in securing the victory and reversing the flow of the match.

The match drew attention from former club figures, including Cristi Dulca, who watched the derby from the stands. Dulca, who previously played for and coached Universitatea Cluj, attended the game as a fan. His presence highlighted the emotional significance of the fixture for those with deep ties to the club’s history.

Dulca currently serves as the coach of Universitatea Cluj’s women’s football team, a role he assumed approximately a year ago after leaving the Romanian Football Federation (FRF) in 2024. Before joining the women’s section last autumn, Dulca had a distinguished playing career, earning six caps for the Romanian national team and scoring six goals in 74 matches for CFR Cluj between 1992 and 1995. His dual connection to both clubs adds a layer of personal interest to the rivalry.

Speaking on the state of the teams, Dulca remarked that Universitatea Cluj has been a title contender for two years, a claim supported by their current standing five points off the top. He also offered a measured assessment of CFR Cluj, praising the work of coach Pancu for delivering consistent results despite citing financial issues that have affected the club’s current status. Dulca emphasized that winning every match remains the primary objective for his women’s team, which promoted to Liga II last season and is now aiming for promotion to the Superliga.

With the derby concluded, Universitatea Cluj looks ahead to their next challenge against Rapid București, who are currently second in the league. The match is scheduled for October 12, 2026, presenting an opportunity for U Cluj to further consolidate their position in the upper half of the table and maintain their push for the championship.