In an exhilarating league clash held at Bucharest on 22 September 2024, A.S. Cetate Bucuresti edged past Millaneto with a final score of 3-2. The match, which kicked off at 5:00 pm, showcased a blend of skill, determination, and tactical nous from both sides.
A.S. Cetate Bucuresti deployed a 4-1-2-3 formation, designed to balance defensive solidity with attacking flair. Darius Bandehzadegan occupied the goalkeeping position, while the back four consisted of Ene Stefan and Leo Tudor as right and left defenders respectively, with Dan Del Zappo and Christian Müler forming the central defensive partnership. In front of them, Bishoy Khalil played as the central midfielder, tasked with linking defence and attack. The attacking trio featured Farzad Gharahdaghi on the right, Andres Rodriguez Fabian on the left, and the dynamic duo of Marchidan Andrei and Vasco Barreto leading the line as forwards.
The substitutes for A.S. Cetate Bucuresti included Mihai Grigore, Claudiu Prodan, Filip Marchis, and Marcus deCosta, providing depth and tactical options for the manager throughout the match.
The scoring opened early in the match when Marchidan Andrei found the net in the 8th minute, capitalising on a well-placed cross from Vasco Barreto. This set-piece goal gave A.S. Cetate Bucuresti a promising start, igniting their attacking momentum. However, Millaneto responded swiftly, equalising in the 19th minute with a stunning solo effort from outside the box, struck with the left foot.
As the first half progressed, A.S. Cetate Bucuresti regained their lead just before the break. In the 43rd minute, Bishoy Khalil scored with a powerful header, assisted by Dan Del Zappo, showcasing their aerial prowess and tactical execution from set pieces. The first half concluded with A.S. Cetate Bucuresti leading 2-1.
The second half began with a tactical substitution for A.S. Cetate Bucuresti, as Mihai Grigore replaced Ene Stefan at half-time. Shortly after, in the 65th minute, Millaneto struck again, this time with a lob from outside the box that left Bandehzadegan with no chance, bringing the score to 2-2.
A.S. Cetate Bucuresti responded positively to this setback, and in the 73rd minute, Vasco Barreto restored their lead with a solo goal, expertly assisted by a long pass from Farzad Gharahdaghi. This goal, scored with Barreto's right foot, highlighted the attacking capabilities of A.S. Cetate Bucuresti.
In the closing stages, A.S. Cetate Bucuresti made further tactical changes, bringing on Filip Marchis for Vasco Barreto in the 79th minute and Marcus deCosta for Farzad Gharahdaghi in the 82nd minute. However, the match took a dramatic turn in the 84th minute when Bishoy Khalil had the opportunity to extend their lead from the penalty spot. Unfortunately for him, his effort was saved, keeping Millaneto in the contest.
Despite the late pressure from Millaneto, A.S. Cetate Bucuresti held on to secure a thrilling 3-2 victory. Marchidan Andrei's standout performance earned him the title of Player of the Match, as he played a crucial role in his team's success. This victory not only boosts A.S. Cetate Bucuresti's league standing but also sets a positive tone for their upcoming fixtures.