- Universitatea Cluj are top of the Liga I Playoff 2025-2026 on 36 points from 3 matches
- Universitatea Craiova are level with their hosts in 2nd on 36 points
Two heavyweights clash in the playoff for glory
Monday’s Liga I Playoff clash between Universitatea Cluj and Universitatea Craiova is a game of major significance to both clubs and the wider competition. Not only is it a classic top vs 2nd clash in a playoff system that determines who wins the title, the outcome will also be a factor in which teams qualify for European competition in 2026/27.
Cluj have made a blistering start to the playoff with a record of 3 wins from 3 games, earning 36 points from 3 victories to go top of the league. For our Universitatea Cluj vs Universitatea Craiova prediction, Cluj’s unbeaten home record this season is a key factor. They have beaten CFR 1907 Cluj 2-1 at home and Rapid Bucuresti 2-1 away in their previous 2 games and come into this clash with an unbeaten home record this season.
Craiova are close behind their opponents with the same record of 36 points from 3 games, taking 3 wins from their opening 3 playoff fixtures. They have beaten CFR 1907 Cluj 2-0 at home and won away to Dinamo Bucuresti 1-0.
Craiova’s vertical approach should suit their home advantage
Cluj and Craiova are two clubs with a long and rich history as traditional powerhouses in Romanian soccer. Both sides are solid and defensively disciplined but Craiova look to be a more vertical side with more tempo and should be able to take the game to their opponents on Monday. In this Universitatea Cluj vs Universitatea Craiova preview, we analyze how Craiova’s vertical style and tempo might give them the edge in this encounter.
Filipe Coelho has brought an organized, solid defence and attacking flair to Craiova since taking over in November 2025. His 4-2-3-1 structure suits Craiova’s personnel best, as they have the midfield depth to play fast-paced football, which is key to their vertical style.
Cristiano Bergodi has moulded a pragmatic, compact unit at Cluj since coming in October 2025. He has built a side that plays a defensive set-up which is full of running and counter-attacking, set-piece threat and can defend themselves from counterattacks. It’s an exciting tactical contrast for what will be a hard-fought game.
Expect goals in this tight contest
It is difficult to offer a Universitatea Cluj vs Universitatea Craiova prediction, as they have contrasting styles, are both solid teams and both have recent form that shows they can beat anyone on their day. There are better than even odds on a home win at 2.58, which is fair value. Furthermore, this match is an excellent reference point for Universitatea Cluj vs Universitatea Craiova betting tips, as both sides have demonstrated the ability to find the net and defend resolutely.
However, I will go against the odds and back Over 2.5 goals at 2.1 and Both Teams to Score - Yes at 1.77. Both teams have good defences but there is plenty of attacking flair on both sides that can unlock any defence on their day.
Oucasse Mendy has been Cluj’s talisman with 3 goals in 3 games in the playoff, scoring 4 of his side’s last 11 goals. Anzor Mekvabishvili leads the scoring charts for Craiova with 1 in 2 games, while Carlos Mora has added flair and creativity with 1 assist.
