FCSB vs Petrolul Ploiesti - Liga I

Tactical intrigue takes centre stage on September 14, 2026 as FCSB and Petrolul Ploiesti prepare to square off at the home ground, with both managers known for their strategic nuance in the Liga I. The 74-year-old Hoops boss admitted that "it'll be a bit strange not having the (Celtic) fans in but I'm nervously and excitedly looking forward to it; it's a great fixture" and also spoke about the police visit.

The standings paint a clear picture: FCSB in 7th, Petrolul Ploiesti in 3rd, and both keen to climb. The hosts have mirrored the form of a side still searching for rhythm — LLLWD over their last five, a win rate of 37.5%. The visitors have been a force on their travels, WWLWW in their last five and a campaign win rate of 62.5% that demands respect. The contrast in attacking output — 1.38 versus 1.13 goals per game — adds an extra layer of intrigue. Sky Sports columnist Laura Hunter analyses the big talking points from the first round of Women's Super League matches, bringing you closer to the key stories at the heart of the women's game.

Set-piece efficiency could prove the difference on the night. Both FCSB and Petrolul Ploiesti have invested time in dead-ball situations this season, and a single corner or free-kick may settle it. They were slightly found out against Amorim's Milan in pre-season, with the press not quite sharp enough - the fourth goal, in particular, came from just one ball over a high-lined defence.

When A. Dumiter is on the pitch — 6 goals to his name this term — moments of magic are never far away, and the Liga I's top scorer will be central to how this one unfolds. Discipline at the back and sharpness in front of goal will likely tilt the balance one way or the other. With Marcos Senesi similarly forward thinking with his passing, and Van Hecke committing opponents like nobody else, a team is being constructed that can play through the thirds.

Current market odds — FCSB at 1.3900, the draw at 4.5500, Petrolul Ploiesti at 7.2000 — point to a competitive affair. The odds leave little room for debate — FCSB are the overwhelming favourites and the market expects them to deliver. A share of the spoils looks the most probable outcome, with neither side holding a decisive edge — a 1-1 draw feels like a fitting result. The ramifications of this result could ripple through the Liga I standings for weeks to come, regardless of who comes out on top. All I ever wanted to do was win a championship for the New York Giants.” Beckham Jr is likely to play in the Giants’ first preseason game against the Minnesota Vikings at MetLife Stadium next weekend.