UTA Arad, home victory over CFR Cluj after 20 years

UTA Arad defeated CFR Cluj 1-0 on Sunday at the “Francisc Neuman” Stadium, securing their first home league victory against the Cluj side in 20 years. The decisive goal was scored by Omar El Sawy in the 55th minute.

The team coached by Adrian Mihalcea controlled the first half but failed to turn their dominance into a goal. Alin Roman came close to opening the scoring in the 43rd minute, when goalkeeper Vâlceanu parried his free kick from approximately 20 metres.

CFR had their biggest chance immediately after the break. In the 48th minute, Biliboc hit the crossbar after Cordea’s pass. Seven minutes later, El Sawy combined with Marius Coman and scored to make it 1-0.

UTA had further opportunities through Papeau and Marius Coman, but the midfielder’s goal remained the only one of the match. The victory was UTA’s first at home against CFR in the country’s top domestic competition since 23 September 2006, when UTA also won 1-0.

The result also extends the hosts’ positive home run. UTA have not lost at home in the SuperLiga since 1 March 2026. After 12 rounds, the Arad side have 15 points, while CFR Cluj remain on 16. The match was attended by 6,078 spectators.