Universitatea Craiova face Getafe in Conference League with key absences for both sides

Earlier match preview: this report was published before kick-off. It is not a current fixture update or a final-result report. See recorded SuperLiga fixtures and results.

Universitatea Craiova hosts Getafe on October 15, 2026, at 19:45 at the Ion Oblemenco stadium. This fixture marks the Romanian champion's first match in the Conference League group stage.

Craiova enters this European campaign as the domestic league leader, currently sitting in third place in the Superligă. The team recently secured a 1-0 away victory against Csikszereda, with Elisor scoring the decisive goal in the 76th minute.

This is only the second European competition participation for Universitatea Craiova. Last season, the club reached the league phase by eliminating Sarajevo, Spartak Trnava, and Basaksehir. They finished 25th in the standings with two wins against Mainz and Rapid Vienna, plus a draw with Noah.

Craiova missed out on spring qualification last term after a 3-2 loss to AEK Atena, who scored a penalty in the 90+15 minute. Recent history also shows vulnerability to early goals, as seen in their elimination by Levski Sofia.

Coach Coelho faces several absences for this match. Etim and Adrian Rus are unavailable due to medical issues. Carlos Mora is suspended following a red card in the Europa League play-off second leg. Goalkeeper Isenko is also listed as unavailable.

Getafe arrives in Romania after a 0-3 defeat away to Barcelona. In that match, defender Zaid Romero suffered an injury in the 37th minute. The Spanish side finished seventh in La Liga last season and currently sits 14th with eight points from eight matches.

Getafe coach José Bordalás cannot rely on several key players. Juanmi and Uche are out with knee problems. Azon, Mangala, Romero, and new signing Carvajal are also unavailable for the trip to Romania.

Statistical data indicates Getafe has struggled with possession, recording a best of 43 percent in recent matches. The Slovenian referee David Šmajc will officiate the game. He averages 4.50 yellow cards and 0.17 red cards per game this season.

Betting odds vary by source. TopBet lists Craiova at 2.90, a draw at 2.90, and Getafe at 2.42. Another source cites odds of 3.30 for Craiova, 3.10 for a draw, and 2.38 for Getafe.

Craiova’s remaining Conference League group opponents include Brighton, FC Copenhaga, Kairat Almaty, Inter Escaldes, and Egnatia. Upcoming home fixtures include matches against Egnatia on November 5 and Copenhagen on December 17.