Congolese forward Béni Nkololo scores again as CFR Cluj lose ground in battle for second place

Béni Nkololo found the net for the third time in the league this season, but CFR Cluj failed to make the most of their trip to Universitatea Craiova, settling for a 2-2 draw in the eighth round of Romania’s Liga 1 Championship Group.

The result dealt a blow to Cluj’s ambitions of securing second place, a position that would guarantee a route into the preliminary rounds of next season’s UEFA Europa League.

With the league title already clinched by FCSB, the race is now focused on who claims the runner-up spot, and Cluj missed a vital opportunity to pull clear of their rivals.

The Congolese forward made his mark once again, netting Cluj’s second goal in the 58th minute, showcasing his sharpness in the final third.

Nkololo’s contribution brings his season tally to three league goals and five in all competitions.

He has also provided six assists in 35 appearances, underlining his importance in Cluj’s campaign.

Despite Nkololo’s efforts, Cluj’s defensive lapses allowed Craiova to stay in the contest, and ultimately, both sides shared the spoils.

The draw leaves Cluj with 39 points, just two ahead of Craiova, who are pressing hard for the same European objective.

With only two fixtures remaining in the league, the margin for error is narrowing rapidly.

Cluj must now shift their focus to their next league outing against Rapid Bucharest on Monday, 19 May — a match that could prove decisive in the battle for second place.

Before that, however, Cluj will look to secure continental qualification through an alternative route.

They are set to face Hermannstadt in the final of the Romanian National Cup, a competition that could also offer a ticket to Europe.

That encounter may offer the team a crucial lifeline as they attempt to salvage what has been a turbulent season.

Speaking after the match, Cluj’s staff acknowledged the need for urgency and improvement in the final stretch.

The team remains in a strong position, but with pressure mounting from below, the next two weeks could determine whether Cluj’s season ends in disappointment or redemption.

As for Nkololo, his growing influence will be vital if Cluj are to finish the season on a high.

His goal-scoring form and creativity in attack could be the key to unlocking both domestic silverware and a return to the European stage.