FCSB vs Aberdeen Prediction & Betting Tips (28 August)

The Europa League play-off clash between FCSB and Aberdeen promises to be a high-stakes encounter, with both sides still nursing the bruises and adrenaline from a dramatic 2-2 draw in the first leg at Pittodrie. FCSB, despite being reduced to ten men after Juri Cisotti’s dismissal, surged ahead through Daniel Birligea and Darius Olaru, only to be pegged back by Aberdeen’s late rally courtesy of Dante Polvara and Ester Sokler. That comeback has injected fresh belief into Jimmy Thelin’s squad, who now travel to Bucharest with a shot at Europa League group stage qualification for the first time in club history.

Aberdeen’s recent form has been a mixed bag. They opened their domestic campaign with back-to-back defeats but bounced back emphatically in the Scottish League Cup, dispatching Greenock Morton 3-0. Thelin has leaned on Kusini Yengi up front, supported by Adil Aouchiche in the playmaker role, while midfield dynamism has come from Sivert Heltne Nilsen and Graeme Shinnie. Injuries to defenders Emmanuel Gyamfi and Kristers Tobers have forced tactical reshuffles, and clearance issues have kept new signings Marko Lazetic and Kenan Bilalovic on the sidelines. Nonetheless, Aberdeen’s resilience and depth were on full display in the first leg, and they’ll need every ounce of that grit in Romania.

FCSB, meanwhile, are navigating a turbulent domestic season. Despite winning the Romanian league last term, they’ve managed just one win in their first six matches this season. Their Europa League journey has been more encouraging, with convincing wins over Drita and a spirited showing in Scotland. Coach Elias Charalambous has leaned heavily on the attacking trio of Birligea, Miculescu, and Tanase—each capable of turning a game on its head. However, defensive lapses and late-game collapses have haunted them, and the pressure is mounting, especially with club owner Gigi Becali publicly counting on the financial windfall of group stage qualification.

With the second leg set at the National Arena, expect a fiery atmosphere and tactical chess match. Aberdeen’s late momentum and FCSB’s vulnerability under pressure tilt the balance ever so slightly in favor of the visitors. If Thelin’s men can replicate their attacking verve and tighten up defensively, a 2-1 away win is within reach—an outcome that would not only seal progression but also mark a historic milestone for the Dons. The margins are razor-thin, but Aberdeen’s blend of youthful energy and seasoned leadership might just be the difference-maker in Bucharest.