HÎNCEŞTI, Moldova (Interstat) — Cătălin Cucoș scored in the 37th minute Sunday, lifting FC Petrocub Hînceşti to a 1-0 victory over FC Sheriff Tiraspol in a Divizia A match at Stadionul Municipal.

The goal, Cucoș’s first of the season, proved decisive as Petrocub improved to 21-2-4 overall and 19-2-4 in league play. Sheriff dropped to 19-7-3 overall and 17-7-3 in the division.

The teams had split their previous two meetings this season, with Sheriff winning 1-0 on March 14 and Petrocub taking a 4-2 victory on Nov. 8, 2025.

Petrocub entered the match atop the standings with three losses overall, while Sheriff was seeking to close the gap. The hosts controlled possession for much of the contest, generating several chances before Cucoș’s break through.

Sheriff, which had won three of its previous four league matches, could not find an equalizer despite late pressure.

The result kept Petrocub in first place with four matches remaining in the campaign. The two clubs are scheduled to meet again May 6 in the Cupa Moldovei.