UTA Arad vs CFR Cluj Prediction: A draw is possible

Friday's Liga I match will see Cluj travel to Francisc von Neuman to face UTA Arad. Both teams have started the season unbeaten, with Cluj securing three points and UTA Arad earning one point in their respective matches so far. Previews, H2H, expert tips, and odds are provided below.

UTA Arad go into this fixture coming off a 1-1 draw against Oţelul Galaţi. After being ahead through 18-year-old Rares Pop's effort in the injury time of the first half, Alexandru Pop scored in the 62nd minute to draw Otelul level. UTA Arad would have gone without any point when Otelul were awarded a penalty in the 76th minute of the game, but Italian forward, Juri Cisotti missed from the spot. With the draw, this side remain unbeaten in 9 matches. Ahead of this clash, UTA Arad are winless against CFR Cluj in their previous 5 league games.

In their previous match, CFR Cluj secured a 2-0 victory against CSM Politehnica Iași. The game started with a controversial moment as Poli Iași thought they had taken an early lead in the 4th minute, but the goal was disallowed for offside following a VAR review. Taking advantage of the situation, Cluj opened the scoring in the 12th minute and then added a second goal just four minutes into the second half.

Interestingly, despite Poli Iași's dominance throughout the game, they were unable to find the back of the net. The newly promoted team controlled the possession, with 62% in the first half and an even higher 70% in the second half. However, Cluj's goalkeeper was up to the task, making four important saves to deny Poli Iași.

The victory against Poli Iași extended Cluj's winning streak to five matches, highlighting their resurgence and return to their historic form in the league. They will be looking to maintain their winning momentum as they face UTA Arad in their upcoming encounter.

CFR Cluj and UTA Arad have a history of competitive matches, with Cluj currently holding the upper hand. In the last five encounters between the two teams, Cluj has remained unbeaten, securing three victories and playing out two draws.

Furthermore, recent matches between these sides have seen both teams find the back of the net, indicating an entertaining and competitive contest. Both Cluj and UTA Arad have been able to contribute to the goal tally, adding an extra element of excitement to their meetings.

As they prepare to face each other once again, both teams will be eager to continue their positive form and secure a favorable result. UTA Arad will be looking to break their winless streak against Cluj, while Cluj will aim to maintain their unbeaten run and potentially extend their dominance over their opponents. In the end, I see both sides finding the back of the net in a game that can end in a 1-1 draw.

• BTTS for 1.91 odds
• X for 3.25 odds
• CS: 1-1 for 6.50 odds