In the UEFA Champions League second preliminary round first leg on July 22, 2025, FCSB was narrowly defeated 1-0 away at Shkendija in Skopje, putting pressure on the Romanian champions ahead of the crucial return leg[2][3]. Following the loss, club owner Gigi Becali expressed optimism about qualification despite the setback but immediately announced the exclusion of Ovidiu Perianu and Marius Ștefănescu from the squad due to disappointing performances, signaling a swift squad shakeup before the second leg[1]. Becali also declared the return of Malcom Edjouma and Alexandru Băluță, previously sidelined and sought to be transferred, emphasizing a tougher stance on player discipline and performance[2]. His blunt assessment reflected a critical view of the team’s mindset and effort during the match, highlighting indiscipline and lack of commitment as costly errors that must be corrected if FCSB is to advance in Europe. The fallout also included a tense moment during Becali’s live comments, when an uncomfortable question about Perianu disrupted the conversation with the broadcast. This defeat has potential implications for FCSB’s Champions League ambitions, forcing tactical and personnel changes at a pivotal juncture.
