Universitatea Cluj faced a surprising 1-2 defeat against the Croatian U19 national team in their first summer friendly on Sunday evening in Nedelišće, Croatia. Despite being the Romanian vice-champion and Cup finalist, Cluj struggled against the youthful Croatian side.

The game saw the Croatian U19s take an early lead, with goals in the 6th and 11th minutes. Ștefan Lefter found himself under immediate pressure. The Croatian team quickly established their dominance, forcing Cluj's goalkeeper into several difficult saves while the defensive line scrambled to reorganize.

Key players for Cluj, such as Alex Chipciu and Dan Nistor, began the match on the bench. New signings Florent Poulolo and Marius Ștefănescu were given starting roles. This offered a glimpse into the team's evolving lineup under coach Cristiano Bergodi.

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Dorin Codrea managed to score Cluj's only goal in the 81st minute, but it was not enough to turn the tide. The absence of Jovo Lukic, who is participating in the World Cup with Bosnia, was felt in the attacking line. Too little, too late.

Universitatea Cluj is scheduled for three more friendly matches in Austria, as they prepare for their Europa League qualifier against Dinamo Kiev on July 9. Just three days later, they will face Universitatea Craiova in the Romanian Supercup.

This defeat has raised questions for the Cluj technical staff. They must refine strategies and lineups ahead of critical upcoming fixtures.