How to watch the Europa League Qualification match between FCSB and Aberdeen, as well as kick-off time and team news.
A Europa League group stage berth is on the line Thursday night as FCSB welcome Aberdeen to Romania.
The first leg at Pittodrie delivered plenty of drama, ending in a 2-2 stalemate, but with so much riding on the return fixture, both managers may opt for a more cautious approach this time around. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the upcoming match, covering everything from how to watch it live to the latest team news and tactical considerations.
For FCSB, recent weeks have been forgettable. Elias Charalambous’s men have fallen to three straight defeats, each time conceding three goals. Yet despite being reduced to ten men in the opening half-hour of last week’s clash, they still found the net twice and looked on course for victory before surrendering a two-goal cushion. The Bucharest faithful left frustrated, though home comforts could prove crucial, the Red and Blues have won two of their last three European fixtures on their own patch. The pressure is mounting on Charalambous to turn things around, and a positive result against Aberdeen is crucial to restoring confidence within the squad and among the fans.
Aberdeen, meanwhile, arrive in Romania with their own issues. Jimmy Thelin’s side have tasted victory just once in their last eight outings, with six losses and four blanks in front of goal during that spell. The lack of goals is a major concern for Thelin, who needs to find a way to unlock his team’s attacking potential. Despite their recent struggles, Aberdeen will be buoyed by their comeback in the first leg and will believe they have what it takes to secure a place in the Europa League group stage. The Dons’ resilience and fighting spirit will be key assets as they look to overcome FCSB on their home turf.
Here, GOAL brings you everything you need to know about how to watch, including TV channel, streaming details and more.
How to watch FC FCSB vs Aberdeen online – TV channels & live streams
| Country | TV channel / live stream |
|---|---|
| United Kingdom (UK) | N/A |
| United States (U.S.) | N/A |
| Republic of Ireland | N/A |
| Romania | VOYO, Pro TV |
In the United Kingdom (UK) and the United States (USA), the Europa League playoff game between FC FCSB and Aberdeen will not be broadcast live on TV. In Romania, the game can be streamed on VOYO and Pro TV. This highlights the challenges faced by fans in certain regions who are unable to access live coverage of the match through traditional broadcasting channels. However, the availability of streaming options in Romania provides an alternative for local supporters to follow the game.
Check out GOAL’s Live Match Centre for updates. The Live Match Centre offers real-time updates, including live scores, commentary, and key match events, ensuring fans stay informed even if they cannot watch the game live.
How to watch anywhere with VPN
If you are abroad, you may need to use a virtual private network (VPN) to watch games using your usual streaming service. A VPN, such as NordVPN, allows you to establish a secure connection online when streaming. If you are not sure which VPN to use, check out GOAL’s guide to the best VPNs for streaming sport. Using a VPN can bypass geographical restrictions and allow fans to access streaming services that may not be available in their location.
FC FCSB vs Aberdeen kick-off time
The match will be played at Arena Nationala in Bucharest, Romania, on Thursday, August 28, with kick-off at 2:30 pm ET/ 11:30 am PT/ 7:30 pm BST. The timing of the match caters to a global audience, allowing fans from different time zones to tune in and follow the action.
Team news & squads
FC FCSB vs Aberdeen lineups
(Lineups will be updated closer to kick-off)
Injuries and Suspended players
FC FCSB team news
FCSB will be without Joyskim Dawa (knee), IonuÈ› Cercel (muscle), and the suspended Juri Cisotti, leaving the side stretched in key areas. These absences will force Charalambous to reshuffle his squad and find solutions to fill the gaps left by these key players. The impact of these injuries and suspensions on FCSB’s performance remains to be seen.
Aberdeen team news
The Dons can take heart from their resilience in the first leg, battling back from two down to earn a draw, and from the fact they’ve scored twice in each of their last two games. That revival in attack could be the spark they need as they chase a spot in Europe’s second tier. Aberdeen’s ability to score goals, despite their recent struggles, gives them a fighting chance against FCSB. Thelin will be hoping that his team can build on their attacking momentum and secure a crucial away victory.
Form
- FCSB: L L L W D
- Aberdeen: D L L W D
FCSB’s recent form is a cause for concern, with three consecutive defeats highlighting their defensive vulnerabilities. Aberdeen’s form is also inconsistent, but their resilience in the first leg suggests they are capable of competing against FCSB. The form guide indicates that both teams are struggling for consistency, making it difficult to predict the outcome of the match.
Head-to-Head Record
- FCSB: 0 Wins
- Aberdeen: 0 Wins
- Draws: 1
The head-to-head record shows that the first leg was the only previous encounter between the two teams, ending in a draw. This adds an element of unpredictability to the upcoming match, as neither team has a historical advantage over the other.
Standings
(Standings are not relevant for a playoff match)
Tactical Considerations
FCSB’s defensive woes will likely force Charalambous to adopt a more cautious approach, focusing on tightening up the defense and preventing Aberdeen from scoring. Aberdeen, on the other hand, will look to exploit FCSB’s defensive vulnerabilities and capitalize on any opportunities that come their way. The midfield battle will be crucial, with both teams vying for control of possession and dictating the tempo of the game.
Key Players
For FCSB, the key players include their attacking midfielders, who will be tasked with creating chances and scoring goals. Aberdeen will rely on their experienced defenders to keep FCSB’s attack at bay and their creative midfielders to unlock FCSB’s defense.
Prediction
Given FCSB’s recent form and defensive vulnerabilities, Aberdeen may have a slight advantage going into the second leg. However, FCSB’s home advantage and the importance of the match should not be underestimated. A closely contested match is expected, with Aberdeen potentially edging it on away goals.
Useful links
- Europa League Qualification Fixtures & Results
- FC FCSB Team Profile
- GOAL’s Live Match Centre
- NordVPN
- Best VPNs for Streaming Sport
This match is a crucial one for both FCSB and Aberdeen, with a place in the Europa League group stage at stake. Both teams have their own challenges to overcome, but the rewards are significant. Fans around the world will be eagerly anticipating the outcome of this exciting encounter. The tactical battle between the two managers will be fascinating to watch, and the performance of the key players will likely determine the winner. This game promises to be a thrilling contest with plenty of drama and excitement. The passion and intensity of European football will be on full display as these two teams battle it out for a coveted spot in the Europa League group stage.