CFR Cluj vs CSM Politehnica Iaşi Prediction: The visitors seem to have a big challenge as the season begins

As CFR Cluj set to host CSM Politehnica Iaşi at the Stadionul Dr. Constantin Rădulescu on Saturday, the Lasi-based side will face a side they do not want to face at a time like this in the league fixture. Previews, H2H, expert tips, and odds are provided below.

CFR Cluj have been in impressive form, winning all three pre-season fixtures and securing a spot in the Conference League. Their recent signings, including right-back Vasile Mogos from FC Crotone and Nigerian player Philip Otele from UTA Arad, have bolstered their squad. Additionally, the return of loaned players, along with the additions of goalkeeper Catalin Cabuz, Arlind Ajeti, and Matija Boben, will provide further strength to the team.

With these reinforcements and their successful pre-season, the team is considered the heavy favorite in their upcoming match. Their opponent, who last played in the top flight in 2021, may face a tough challenge against this well-prepared and strengthened team.

It will be interesting to see how this team performs in the new season, given their recent successes and the improvements made to their squad.

Poli Lasi had a successful campaign last season, winning the Romania Liga 2 championship after being relegated to the second tier in 2021. Their return to the top flight brings about a challenging first match against a strong team in Romanian football.

In their pre-season friendlies, Poli Lasi had a mixed record, winning two matches, drawing one, and losing three. Considering they are a second-division side, this is a respectable performance, indicating their competitiveness against higher-level opponents.

The team has made several acquisitions on free transfers to strengthen their squad. Among these signings are Alex Militaru, a former U19 player from CFR Cluj, as well as Dumitru Celeadnic, Florin Ilie, Carlos Jatobá, Sorin Serban, Andrei David, George Dragomir, and Léo Índio. These additions will provide depth and talent to the team as they aim to make an impact in the top flight.

While the first match against a strong opponent may pose a challenge, Poli Lasi will be eager to showcase their capabilities and make a successful comeback to the top division of Romanian football.

During the period between 2017 and 2021, CFR Cluj and Poli Lasi faced each other 12 times. CFR Cluj emerged as the dominant side, winning 8 of those encounters, while Poli Lasi managed to secure victory in 2 matches. The remaining 2 matches ended in draws.

Furthermore, it is worth noting that CFR Cluj has maintained an unbeaten record against Poli Lasi when playing at home throughout their history.

All things seem to be working in favor of the home side, from the historic H2H to the current form. So I am rooting for the home side to win before the break, scoring more than once at regulation time.

• Total 1: Over 1.5 for 1.75 odds
• Over 2.5 for 2.25 odds
• HT: W1 for 1.96 odds