FCSB loses 3-2 to FK Auda in Conference League opener

FCSB were defeated 3-2 by Latvian side FK Auda in the first leg of the second preliminary round of the UEFA Conference League at Steaua Stadium in Bucharest. Auda took an early lead in the fifth minute, while FCSB equalised through Octavian Popescu in the 23rd minute and later through a debut goal by Algerian winger Aymen Boutoutaou in the 71st minute. Auda secured the win in extra time via Kader Kone.

Coach Marius Baciu said the team will not give up and will aim to overturn the deficit in the return leg. Club owner Gigi Becali warned Boutoutaou about his playing style despite the goal, and hinted at further transfer activity, including interest in Denis Drăguș. The match also raised a potential UEFA disciplinary issue after two children entered the pitch during a stoppage, exposing FCSB to a fine of €5,000‑€15,000.

The fixture attracted significant domestic TV viewership, with Pro TV reporting a 7.5 % rating, higher than the Champions League final and the Romanian Cup final, and a total audience of roughly 1.3 million viewers. FCSB’s starting eleven featured four French players, reflecting recent summer signings.