Triple test slows down Rapid

European assignments
Despite their lowly placing, Rapid are just eight points behind leaders FC Steaua Bucuresti, who are a point above FC Dinamo Bucuresti in the race to be crowned 'winter champions'. While the rest of the country can relax after the cup quarter-finals on 7 December, Rapid and Bucharest rivals Steaua and Dinamo continue their UEFA Cup campaigns with the final group-stage Matchday the following midweek.

Dinamo meltdown
Dinamo could also do with a break, having surrendered a five-point lead in the standings following successive defeats by FC Arges Pitesti and FC National Bucuresti. Out of the cup and in serious peril in the UEFA Cup, Dinamo need a result against FC Politehnica AEK Timisoara on Sunday to placate their supporters. "Our fans don't love us any more and we don't feel their support," said captain Florentin Petre.

Hagi effect
Behind the front two are unfancied Poli AEK, who have been galvanised by the appointment of Romanian legend Gheorghe Hagi as coach. They have won their two matches under Hagi without conceding, and success against Dinamo would establish them as serious contenders. Steaua, meanwhile, will be hoping neither side takes three points. "For us, a draw would be the best option," said Steaua general manager Mihai Stoica.

National hit stride
Fourth-placed Arges are in the news more for their financial difficulties than any on-field performances; major investors in Steaua and Dinamo are involved in takeover talks. Despite their troubles, Arges are only five points off the pace, one above another capital outfit, National, who have impressed since coach Cristiano Bergodi's arrival and could yet challenge. At the bottom, FC Vaslui look certain to be relegated after becoming the first team in 47 years to win none of their opening 14 league games.