Dinamo Bucharest achieved a significant 2-0 victory over Hermannstadt on March 3, 2025, at the Stadion „Arcul de Triumf” as they bounced back from two consecutive defeats. Goals from Edy Gnahore and Cîrjan not only secured the win but also propelled Dinamo back up to fifth place in the league standings, overtaking Rapid București.
The match began with high expectations, especially after Dinamo had struggled without a win over the past three games. They were eager to disrupt Hermannstadt's momentum, who were coming off two consecutive victories. Dinamo's players seized this opportunity, demonstrating their determination right from the start.
Gnahore opened the scoring early, finding the net within the first minute of the second half. He received the ball just outside the box and unleashed what can only be described as a “torpedo” shot, landing it perfectly within the top corner of the net, leaving keeper Cristian Căbuz with little chance to react.
Not long after, Cîrjan made his mark on the game. His goal, which came at the 65-minute mark, was the result of a brilliant solo effort. After receiving the ball, he skillfully maneuvered past defenders and decided to take shot at the far post, securing Dinamo's two-goal lead.
Despite the victory, initial joy was tinged with disappointment earlier in the match when Dinamo had another goal disallowed by referee Horațiu Feșnic after concerns of both foul play and potential offside were raised. This early setback did little to deter Dinamo, as they maintained focus and intensity throughout.
Coach Zeljko Kopic expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance post-match, highlighting the importance of the win as they gear up for the final matches of the season. "Unii jucători vor rămâne, alţii vor pleca. Am vorbit cu Josue (n.r. Homawoo) şi cu Astrit (n.r. Selmani). Decizia lor este să nu-şi prelungească contractele cu Dinamo... Toată lumea e fericită, satisfăcută. Oamenii cred că facem lucruri bune aici," Kopic stated, noting the challenging contract negotiations the team faces going forward.
Difficult choices loom on the horizon for Dinamo as they prepare for the play-out stage of the season. The loss of key players, like Homawoo and Selmani, who have decided against contract extensions, will certainly challenge the team as they look to solidify their standing and push through these last matches.
While Dinamo's victory has revived hopes, Hermannstadt’s coach, Marius Măldărășanu, was left grappling with how to navigate his team's disappointing result, especially as their recent form had hinted at playoff aspirations. Despite this setback, he acknowledged his players' efforts and mentioned the importance of building on the prior successes to lift their standings.
Both teams will now focus on their next fixtures, as Dinamo prepares to leverage this victory and build momentum, aiming to end the season on a high note and secure their desired position. The rivalry with Rapid has added extra spice to the league, and every point will count as the pressure mounts.
Fans of Dinamo can breathe easier after the victory, but they also remain cautious as the loss of players looms over the upcoming transfer window where team stability will be necessary for continued success. The atmosphere was electric but cautious, knowing the stakes have risen significantly.
Overall, the match reiterated Dinamo's resilience and determination to reclaim their position among Romania's elite football teams, proving they have the capability to rise again even after hard times.