Universitatea Craiova is one of Romania’s most iconic and beloved football clubs, known for its rich history, passionate fanbase, and competitive spirit. Based in the city of Craiova, this club has long been a powerhouse in Romanian football, producing legendary players, winning major trophies, and consistently challenging the nation’s top teams. Let’s take a deep dive into the RR88 story, achievements, and statistics of this formidable football club.
A Storied Beginning
The club was founded in 1948 as a student team affiliated with the University of Craiova, quickly earning respect across the Romanian leagues. Over the decades, it grew into a professional club and eventually became a consistent force in Liga I, Romania’s top division.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Universitatea Craiova made history not just in Romania, but across Europe. They were the first Romanian team to reach a European semi-final — the 1982–83 UEFA Cup — a historic achievement that put the club on the international football map.
Total Goals and Legendary Attacks
Universitatea Craiova has scored over 2,000 goals in Liga I since its inception. Their most prolific attacking period came in the 1980s, with the iconic trio of Ilie Balaci, Rodion Cămătaru, and Ion Geolgău tearing defenses apart.
Rodion Cămătaru, one of the club’s greatest forwards, netted an incredible 122 goals during his time at Craiova, including winning the European Golden Boot in 1987. The club’s style of play has always emphasized fluid, attacking football, a tradition that continues today with modern stars lighting up the scoreboard.
Domestic Honors and Achievements
Universitatea Craiova has claimed numerous domestic trophies, with a total of:
- 4 Liga I titles (1973–74, 1979–80, 1980–81, 1990–91)
- 8 Romanian Cup wins (1976–77, 1977–78, 1980–81, 1982–83, 1990–91, 1992–93, 2017–18, 2020–21)
- 1 Romanian Super Cup (2021)
Their golden era came between the late ‘70s and early ‘80s, a period when they dominated Romanian football and made impressive European runs. That legacy continues to inspire new generations of players and fans alike.
European Adventures
Universitatea Craiova has also been a regular competitor in UEFA competitions. Their standout campaign was the 1982–83 UEFA Cup, where they reached the semi-finals before narrowly losing to Benfica. This achievement remains one of the greatest by any Romanian club in European history.
More recently, Craiova has participated in the UEFA Europa Conference League, showing promise and determination to re-establish themselves on the continental stage.
Fanbase and Stadium
Known as “The Lions of Bănie,” Craiova’s fans are among the most passionate in Romania. Their home ground, the Ion Oblemenco Stadium, is a modern 30,000-seat fortress that creates an electric atmosphere on match days. The support from the stands has always been a driving force behind the team’s home performances.
Whether the team is leading the league or fighting for a top-six finish, the fans remain fiercely loyal and create one of the best matchday experiences in Romanian football.
Recent Years and Bright Future
In recent seasons, Universitatea Craiova has been a consistent presence in Liga I’s top ranks, regularly qualifying for European competitions and competing for domestic cups. The club has invested in youth development and talent scouting, helping it build a competitive and future-ready squad.
With a mix of experienced internationals and rising stars, Craiova looks set to continue challenging for titles and reviving the golden legacy it once held.
Final Thoughts
Universitatea Craiova is more than just a football club — it’s a symbol of pride for an entire region. With over 2,000 goals scored and a trophy cabinet full of historic achievements, this club continues to shine in Romanian football. From past glories to future ambitions, Craiova remains a team to watch and admire, both at home and in Europe.