CFR Cluj vs UTA Arad Prediction: The hosts are the favorites

CFR Cluj prepare for a showdown against UTA Arad this Saturday at the vibrant Stadionul Dr. Constantin Rădulescu. Sitting snug in second place, a mere 3 points adrift from the top spot in the title race, CFR Cluj are poised to flex their muscles and emerge as a formidable contender for the championship. Scroll down for sneak peeks, head-to-head insights, expert tips, and odds.

DDWLD

CFR Cluj have been on a roll lately, only tasting defeat in 2 out of their last 15 games in all competition while securing 4 draws and winning an impressive 9 matches. Their recent showdown was nothing short of spectacular, ending in a 3-3 draw. Despite conceding two early goals at the 11th and 22nd minutes, CFR Cluj showcased their resilience by leveling the score at 27 and 38 minutes. The first half ended on a high note as they netted another goal in the 44th minute. However, the second half saw them concede at the 62nd minute, resulting in a shared point.

This excellent form has propelled CFR Cluj to the second spot in the league standings, amassing 31 points in just 15 matches. They've found the back of the net 31 times while conceding 17 goals, positioning them a mere 3 points away from the league leaders.

One standout player in this impressive lineup is Philip Otele, the Nigerian international forward. Otele has been a force to be reckoned with, scoring 6 goals and assisting his teammates in finding the net 4 times.

DDWWL

UTA Arad have been making efforts to maintain a decent form, facing defeat in only 2 out of their 11 recent outings. They managed to secure draws in 5 instances and celebrate victories in 4 matches.

However, their last league game against Otelul ended on a somber note with a 4-2 defeat on their home turf. The first half of the game was particularly challenging, as they conceded three goals, with early blows in the 3rd and 5th minutes and a late goal in the 34th minute. Despite conceding another goal in the 54th minute of the second half, UTA Arad rallied to score 2 consolation goals in 86 and 90+5 minutes. Unfortunately, it wasn't enough, and the match concluded in a defeat, leaving their fans disheartened.

In the league standings, UTA Arad currently occupy the 8th position. They've earned a total of 18 points in 16 matches, scoring 19 goals but conceding a higher tally of 25.

In the past 12 encounters spanning various competitions, the face-offs between CFR Cluj and UTA Arad have delivered nothing short of excitement. CFR Cluj have emerged victorious in 8 of these clashes, UTA Arad have held their ground with 2 wins, and 2 matches have concluded in a draw.

Taking into account the recent league performances and the compelling head-to-head history, both CFR Cluj and UTA Arad exhibit a formidable ability to find the back of the net. The anticipation is further heightened by CFR Cluj's high attacking prowess, indicating a match brimming with goal-scoring opportunities. With the potential for a closely contested battle, the outlook leans towards a victory for CFR Cluj.

• W1 for 1.60 odds
• BTTS for 2.02 odds
• Over 2.5 for 1.91 odds