Serghei Clescenco has resigned from this position as head coach of Moldova following their humiliating 11-1 defeat to Norway in this month’s 2026 World Cup qualifiers, Afrosport reports.
Manchester City striker Erling Haaland netted five goals, while Rangers midfielder Thelo Aasgaard was on the scoresheet four times at Ullevaal Stadion in Oslo on Tuesday. Captain Martin Odegaard and Felix Horn Myhre scored the remaining goals.
The result marked their heaviest ever defeat, with Moldova languishing in the bottom of Group I after five matches. The Eastern European nation has yet to pick up a point in their qualifying campaign and currently have a minus 22 goal difference.
Clescenco took over coach in December 2021 and has guided the team to promotion into League C in the UEFA Nations League. He almost ensured their presence in the Euro 2024 qualification play-offs, but they just missed out.
The Moldova Football Federation (FMF) confirmed his resignation on Thursday, with the 52-year-old issuing a statement on their website. He said: “In these approximately four years we have lived through many emotions together, some less pleasant, for which I apologise, but also many beautiful ones.
“Throughout this time I have felt your support, from the fans, the players, the staff and the federation. I thank you all for the trust and encouragement you have given me.”
Clescenco oversaw 38 games during his time as Moldova’s boss and departs with a 31.58 percent win rate. During his tenure, they secured 12 wins, drew eight games and lost 18.
The Tricolours are in now in the market for a new coach, with trips to Romania and Estonia up next in their World Cup qualifying campaign in October.
