Senegalese striker Thiam scores for FCSB in Romania, Ngezana withdrawn with injury

Senegalese striker Mamadou Thiam scored for FCSB during their 2-1 victory over FC Botoșani in a Romanian SuperLiga match on Thursday evening.

The 30-year-old scored three minutes to the break at a packed Arena Nationala in Bucharest during the SuperLiga match. Romanian Darius Olaru added the second goal for the hosts in the 74^th minute.

The second strike came two minutes after Ukrainian centre-forward Mykola Kovtalyuk had pulled one back for FC Botoșani.

South African defender Siyabonga Ngezana was named in the line up for FCSB but he was unable to make it into the actual game due to an injury. Daniel Graovac replaced the Bafana Bafana star after the injury.

Graovac himself was taken off at halftime due to his own injury and was replaced by Uganda national team player Baba Alhassan. Alhassan set up Olaru’s match winner with a game-winning assist.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by SuperLiga (@superligaromania)

The fourth goal in 22 appearances for Thiam helped the club sometimes referred to by their past name, Steaua București, cement 10th place in the SuperLiga standings, 13 points behind the leaders Universitatea Craiova FC.

The defeat for Botoșani, who featured Malawian Charles Petro in midfield, undermined their push for continued European football. They lie in sixth place, 10 points behind Universitatea.

Mamadou Thiam Breaks the Deadlock Before Half-Time

With both teams probing cautiously in the early stages, Mamadou Thiam provided the breakthrough three minutes before halftime. The 30-year-old striker timed his movement perfectly inside the box and finished calmly to give FCSB a crucial advantage heading into the break.

The goal marked Thiam’s fourth strike in 22 appearances this season, reinforcing his importance to the Bucharest-based side. His ability to deliver in tight moments has been a key factor in stabilising FCSB’s campaign during a challenging phase of the season.

Mamadou Thiam’s Goal Sets the Tone for Second-Half Drama

The second half began with increased urgency from FC Botoșani, who pushed forward in search of an equaliser. Their persistence was rewarded in the 72nd minute, when Ukrainian centre-forward Mykola Kovtalyuk found the back of the net to level the contest.

However, FCSB responded almost immediately. Just two minutes later, Romanian midfielder Darius Olaru restored the hosts’ lead, finishing off a well-worked move to swing momentum back in FCSB’s favour.

Mamadou Thiam Influential Despite Defensive Injury Setbacks

FCSB’s victory was achieved despite significant defensive disruptions. Siyabonga Ngezana was named in the starting lineup but was forced to withdraw before taking the field due to injury. He was replaced by Daniel Graovac, who later had to be substituted at halftime after picking up an injury of his own.

These setbacks tested FCSB’s depth and organisation, but the team showed resilience and composure—qualities that ensured Mamadou Thiam’s early effort remained decisive.

Mamadou Thiam Benefits From Baba Alhassan’s Creative Spark

Ugandan international Baba Alhassan entered the match at halftime and made an immediate impact. The midfielder provided the assist for Darius Olaru’s winning goal, delivering a perfectly weighted pass that broke Botoșani’s defensive line.

Alhassan’s contribution highlighted FCSB’s squad depth and tactical flexibility, allowing the team to cope with injuries while maintaining attacking intent.

Mamadou Thiam Helps FCSB Consolidate SuperLiga Position

The win helped FCSB—often referred to by their historic name Steaua București—cement 10th place in the Romanian SuperLiga standings. They now sit 13 points behind leaders Universitatea Craiova, but the result provides momentum as they aim to climb higher.

For FC Botoșani, the defeat was a setback in their push for European qualification. Despite featuring Malawian midfielder Charles Petro, they remain sixth, ten points adrift of Universitatea Craiova.

Mamadou Thiam’s Experience Proving Crucial for FCSB

As the season progresses, Mamadou Thiam’s experience and consistency could prove invaluable for FCSB. His ability to lead the line, hold up play, and score under pressure offers balance to a squad navigating injuries and inconsistency.

For the Senegalese striker, the goal represents another step in maintaining his form and influence in Romania’s top flight. For FCSB, it was a timely reminder of the value of proven forwards in tight league contests.