Steaua Bucharest 1985-89

By Far The Greatest Team Football Podcast

In this episode, hosts Graham and Jamie delve into the captivating story of Steaua Bucharest, a powerhouse in Romanian football during the 1980s. Hailing from Romania's capital, Steaua emerged as a force to be reckoned with, backed by their ties to the state and the army.
We explore their unforgettable journey in the 1985-86 European Cup, where they battled their way to the final against Barcelona. Despite facing challenges in away matches, Steaua's resilience shone through as they clinched victory in a nail-biting penalty shootout, etching their name in history as the first Romanian team to claim the prestigious European Cup.
Steaua's golden era was marked by unparalleled success, boasting an impressive unbeaten streak of 104 games and securing three domestic doubles. Led by iconic figures like Georgi Hagi and Helmuth Duckadam, they were renowned for their prowess in penalty shootouts and became trailblazers for Romanian football on the European stage.
However, the winds of change swept through Romanian football following the revolution in 1989 and the implementation of the Bosman ruling, leading to a decline in Steaua's dominance. Despite continued success domestically, they struggled to replicate their European glory.
As we evaluate their legacy, we confront controversies surrounding Steaua's success, including allegations of referee bias and ties to the Romanian Communist Party. While they stand as legends in Romanian football history, their status among the all-time greats remains a subject of debate.
Join us as we unravel the captivating tale of Steaua Bucharest, from triumph to controversy, and explore the enduring impact of their legacy on Romanian football and beyond.

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