The Politehnica team that in 1980 won the Romanian Cup and eliminated Celtic Glasgow from the Cup Winners’ Cup lost another player.

Titi Nicolae passed away today after lunchtime following a long illness. He would have been 62 in a month’s time.

He was born on 13 November 1960, in Ciacova (Timiș county), Titi being his surname, Nicolae – his first name, but as a footballer he will be known as Titi Nicolae.

He started, at just 20 years old, in the Cup final, Politehnica Timișoara – Steaua București 2-1 after extra time, and came on for Dembroschi in the legendary Poli – Celtic 1-0.

A left-sided midfielder, he was remembered by fans for his blond hair and youthful impetuosity. He also played for CFR Timisoara in Division B. He settled in Ghilad (Timiș county).

God rest his soul.

Photo: Titi Nicolae is first from the right, below.