FCSB — Aberdeen : Match Preview and Prediction for August 28,2025

First Leg Resilience: FCSB’s Away Performance

Let’s meticulously dissect the first leg in Scotland. A 2-2 draw away from home is, by itself, a significant accomplishment. However, the true essence lies in the finer details. FCSB found themselves playing with ten men from the 39th minute following Yuri Chisotii’s red card. Yet, even with a numerical disadvantage, the Romanian side did not collapse; instead, they managed to net their second goal early in the second half. This remarkable display underscores the team’s quality and tactical discipline, demonstrating their ability to control the game even under the most challenging circumstances.

Key Returns and Squad Strength

Regarding the aforementioned sending off, UEFA reviewed the incident involving Chisotii and issued him only a one-match suspension. This crucial detail suggests the foul was not deemed excessively violent or malicious. While the Italian will indeed miss the return leg, this stands as the sole significant absence, which is more than adequately offset by other mitigating factors. Key players Siyabonga Ngezana and Risto Radunovic are making their return to the squad, having missed the first leg due to visa complications. Reports indicate Radunovic is fully fit and ready, and his presence is expected to significantly bolster the team’s defensive structure.

Fortress Bucharest: The Home Advantage

The home advantage factor simply cannot be overlooked. The match will take place at the ‘Arena Națională’ in Bucharest, where an electrifying atmosphere and fervent support are anticipated. Over 30,000 tickets have already been sold, prompting the club to open the stadium’s third tier. With approximately 40,000 passionate supporters expected, such a roaring stadium will undoubtedly present a formidable challenge for any opponent, especially for a team that has not historically performed at its best on away soil.

Aberdeen’s Missed Opportunity at Home

The Scottish side should have capitalized maximally on their home fixture, particularly given their numerical advantage for nearly an hour of play. Instead, they conceded a second goal, finding themselves in a chasing position. While they did manage to equalize, achieving this against ten men on their own turf is hardly a heroic feat; rather, it’s a clear indication of serious underlying issues. Despite unleashing 28 shots on goal, the team could only salvage a draw.

Away Form Concerns and Sacrificed Domestic Schedule

Aberdeen’s away performances have consistently left much to be desired. This assertion is further corroborated by the fact that the Scottish club was compelled to postpone their domestic league fixture to better prepare for the journey to Romania. The team’s resources are not limitless, and they are clearly sacrificing their domestic schedule for the sake of this single, pivotal European encounter.

Manager’s ‘Final’ Verdict and Contrasting Confidence

Aberdeen’s manager, Jimmy Thelin, has branded the upcoming match a ‘final’ for his squad, highlighting the immense pressure on his players. He speaks respectfully of FCSB, acknowledging them as a strong opponent. In stark contrast to the almost boundless confidence of FCSB owner Gigi Becali, who is already discussing winning the Europa League, the Scottish manager’s measured tone appears to be an implicit recognition of his team’s more precarious position.