FC Otelul Galati Cruise to 3-1 Friendly Victory Over FC Bacau

In a pre-season international club friendly played on July 11, 2026, Romanian Liga I side FC Otelul Galati defeated second-tier outfit FC Bacau 3-1 at the Stadionul Otelul in Galati. The match served as a key test for both sides' preparations for the upcoming domestic campaigns, with Galati's superior class proving decisive in a lively contest that featured four second-half goals.

First-Half Scuffle Gives Way to Second-Half Fireworks

The opening 45 minutes were largely academic, with both teams using the game to build fitness and experiment with tactical setups. Galati controlled possession but lacked edge in the final third, while Bacau stayed compact. The deadlock was broken in the 53rd minute when Galati's Andrei Popescu pounced on a rebound after a powerful shot from Mihai Ionescu was parried by the Bacau goalkeeper. Bacau responded well and equalized just ten minutes later through a well-taken free-kick by Cosmin Radu, giving the visitors hope of an upset.

Galati's Quality Tells in Final Half-Hour

However, Galati raised their intensity after the 70th minute. A slick passing move freed Adrian Stan on the right, and his low cross was turned in by substitute Gabriel Munteanu to restore the lead. Bacau pushed forward in search of another equalizer, but left gaps at the back. In the 84th minute, Galati sealed the win when Rares Dumitrescu raced onto a long ball and chipped the advancing goalkeeper with composure.

Key Takeaways for Both Sides

• FC Otelul Galati – Showed depth in attack, with three different scorers. Manager Costin Lazar will be pleased with the second-half response after a sluggish start. The team's fitness levels appear solid ahead of the Liga I season opener.
• FC Bacau – Despite the loss, the Liga II side demonstrated they can compete against top-division opposition for long stretches. The set-piece goal highlighted a threat from dead-ball situations, though defensive organization remains a work in progress.

Friendly Context and Fan Atmosphere

Around 3,000 fans attended the match, creating a vibrant atmosphere as Galati's supporters welcomed new signings and saw the team's attacking intent. Friendlies like this offer coaches valuable data on player rotations and tactical flexibility. For Bacau, the experience against higher-level opposition will be invaluable as they target promotion from Liga II this season.

Both teams are now expected to play one more friendly before the official start of league play. Galati next face Bulgarian side Botev Plovdiv, while Bacau take on rival CSM Focsani in a local derby.