The highly-anticipated Superliga match between Poli Iași and FCSB is set to take place on December 23, 2024, at the Stadionul "Emil Alexandrescu" in Iași. This match is not just another game; it marks the end of the football year and holds substantial consequences for both teams involved.
Poli Iași enters the match struggling at the bottom of the league, currently sitting at 14th place with only 22 points from 20 matches. Their situation is precarious, as they share the same number of points with Unirea Slobozia and UTA, who occupy the 13th and 12th positions, respectively. A win could mean the difference between continuing to battle relegation and climbing up to 10th place, bringing them some much-needed relief before the winter break.
Meanwhile, FCSB, the reigning champions, is focused on maintaining its position higher up the table, currently residing at fourth place with 34 points. A victory for FCSB could potentially push them up to second place, keeping them closely trailing the league leaders, U Cluj, who are at 37 points.
Fans of Poli Iași, eager to catch the action, have faced growing frustrations over ticket pricing. The club has set VIP tickets for this showdown at the staggering price of 1,000 lei. This decision has sparked outrage among supporters, some of whom expressed their displeasure on social media, with one fan remarking, "La banii ăștia, văd Barcelona" (With this kind of money, I could see Barcelona). Such responses highlight the perceived disparity between the pricing and the club's current league standing.
For comparison, tickets at the standing section for FCSB supporters are significantly cheaper at 40 lei. This disparity has compounded the dissatisfaction among Poli fans, who feel the prices do not reflect the value of the experience, particularly considering the mediocre conditions of their home stadium.
Poli Iași's official communication emphasized the unique experience offered on match day at the VIP section, touting features like climate control, premium food options, large screens for instant replays, and opportunities to meet fellow supporters. Despite these perks, many fans remain skeptical about paying such high prices for what they perceive as inflated costs due to the club's financial aspirations rather than on-field performance.
Coach Emil Săndoi emphasized the stakes during the pre-match conference, stating, "Un meci important pentru ambele echipe. Suntem la polii opuși al clasamentului. Vrem să producem o surpriză" (An important match for both teams. We are at opposite poles of the standings. We want to create surprises). His determination is reflected throughout the squad as they prepare for the challenge against one of Romania's football heavyweights.
On the other hand, Elias Charalambous, the head coach for FCSB, has maintained confidence about his team's performance, addressing the speculation about player transfers, especially concerning Luis Phelipe. He stated categorically, "Sigur că vor putea apărea unele schimbări în lot... Luis Phelipe este un jucător în care echipa a investit." (Sure, there might be changes to the squad... Luis Phelipe is a player the team has invested in.) His commitment to keeping the current roster indicates stability as they aim for victory.
Historically, matches between these two teams have yielded varying results. The first encounter dates back to September 16, 2012, where FCSB emerged victorious with a 3-0 score. Since then, both teams have faced each other numerous times, with FCSB often maintaining the upper hand. The most recent clash earlier this season saw Poli Iași defeating FCSB 1-0 on their home turf—a result the current champions are eager to avenge.
The match on December 23, 2024, promises to be significant on multiple fronts: it’s the final game of the year, it holds potential consequences for standings, and it encapsulates the passionate rivalry between two clubs with drastically different aspirations. With the financial investment from the home team met with disdain from fans, and the prestigious champions seeking redemption, this showdown is set to be one for the record books.
