U Craiova 1948 vs FCSB Prediction: A slow start of action expected at the Stadionul Ion Oblemenco

As league actions return to Romania, U Craiova 1948 and FCSB will settle score at the Stadionul Ion Oblemenco on Sunday. Both sides do not have the best preseason victory expected of a club ready to challenge for silverware in a new season. Previews, H2H, expert tips, and odds are provided below.

U Craiova 1948 finished 7th on the table last season, topping the relegation group. They will be looking to improve their performance in the upcoming season and aim to secure a position in the top 6 or even higher.

In their pursuit of a spot in the great competition this season, U Craiova 1948 faced a strong CFR Cluj side and were defeated 1-0 after extra time. CFR Cluj secured a place in the Conference League while U Craiova 1948 fell short.

During their preseason preparations, U Craiova 1948 played two friendly matches. They secured a 1-0 victory over the German side Ahlen but suffered a 7-2 defeat against Koln II.

In terms of squad reinforcements, U Craiova 1948 made several signings. They acquired Vladislav Blanuta for a fee of 250,000 euros and brought in Andrea Padula, Moses Abbey, Gabriel Compagnucci, and Amar Kvakic on free transfers. These additions are expected to strengthen the team for the upcoming season.

In the previous season, FCSB had a successful season, finishing 2nd on the table and securing a place in the Europa League qualification stage.

During their preseason preparations, they faced Anderlecht and suffered a 5-2 defeat. They also played against PAOK and managed to secure a 1-1 draw.

In terms of transfers, FCSB have been relatively quiet, with only a few signings so far. They have brought in players such as Siyabonga Ngezana, Alexandru Baluta, and Damjan Djokovic to strengthen their squad. These additions are expected to contribute to the team's performance in the upcoming season.

In the head-to-head record between U Craiova 1948 and FCSB from 2005 to the present, FCSB have dominated with 11 victories. There have been four draws between the two teams. U Craiova 1948 have not managed to secure a win against FCSB in any of the 15 matches played during this period.

Furthermore, in the last 13 encounters, neither team have scored more than two goals in a single game. This suggests that the matches between these sides have generally been closely contested with limited goal-scoring opportunities.

Going by the H2H of these two sides, I expect a low-scoring match and a game that will end in a draw after the first 45 minutes.

• BTTS-NO for 1.80 odds
• Under 2.5 for 1.90 odds
• HT: X for 2.10 odds