Congolese striker Steven Nsimba fires Universitatea Craiova to victory and extends superb scoring run

Steven Nsimba struck again as Universitatea Craiova secured a 2-0 win over Farul Constanța in the ninth round of Romania’s top-flight league on Sunday, strengthening their position at the top of the standings.

The Congolese forward set his side on the path to victory at the Ion Oblemenco Stadium in Craiova, breaking the deadlock in the 22nd minute.

The goal marked his fifth strike of the Superliga campaign in just seven matches and his seventh across 11 appearances in all competitions this season, including four outings in European qualifiers.

Nsimba, who joined Craiova this summer from Stade Lavallois in France, has adapted seamlessly to Romanian football despite making his first move abroad at the age of 29.

After spending his career exclusively in France, where he developed his game and earned recognition in Ligue 2, the forward has quickly become a decisive figure for his new club.

Against Farul, his influence was felt from the outset. Leading the line with determination, Nsimba provided the breakthrough that gave Craiova control of the match.

The team capitalised on the momentum, adding a second goal later to seal another valuable victory and maintain their impressive start to the season.

Craiova’s campaign has been characterised by consistency and resilience. In their last ten fixtures across all competitions, they have suffered just a single defeat, while collecting eight wins.

Their strong domestic form has been mirrored by encouraging performances in Europe, where they secured a place in the regular phase of the UEFA Conference League.

The 2-0 success over Farul not only showcased the firepower of their in-form striker but also reflected the collective balance of a side growing in confidence with every game.

Nsimba’s arrival has provided an extra edge in attack, complementing an already well-organised squad that has shown both defensive solidity and attacking flair.

Craiova now lead the Superliga with 23 points after nine matches, emerging as solid front-runners in the early part of the season.

The club’s ambitions of challenging for the domestic title appear increasingly realistic, with Nsimba’s clinical finishing offering a crucial advantage in tight encounters.

For the player himself, the start could hardly have been better. Moving abroad late in his career might have represented a gamble, but the Congolese striker has embraced the challenge and quickly earned the trust of his coaches and teammates. His tally of seven goals in all competitions highlights both his consistency and ability to perform under pressure.

The Ion Oblemenco Stadium has already witnessed several memorable moments from the forward this season, and supporters will be eager to see him continue his fine form as the campaign develops. With the fixture list growing more demanding, his goals may prove vital in sustaining Craiova’s push at home and in Europe.

Attention now turns to the next league clash against Oțelul Galați on Saturday, 20 September. Craiova will look to extend their unbeaten run and further consolidate their leadership position, with Nsimba expected once again to play a pivotal role.

As the season progresses, both club and striker appear on a trajectory full of promise, with Universitatea Craiova’s resurgence and Steven Nsimba’s breakthrough abroad shaping one of the most compelling stories in Romanian football this year.