The 1967 football exchange between APOEL Nicosia and Arsenal F.C.

In 1967, a significant football exchange took place between the Cypriot club APOEL Nicosia and the English club Arsenal F.C. From April 24 to May 6, 1967, APOEL visited London to play matches against a Cypriot Community XI, Charlton Athletic, and Arsenal under the patronage of High Commissioner Costas Assiotis. During this UK tour, APOEL defeated the Community XI 8-1, lost 9-0 to Charlton Athletic, and achieved a notable 1-1 draw against Arsenal at Highbury Stadium. Following this, Arsenal visited Cyprus to play friendly matches against APOEL, Omonia, a combined Limassol team, and Nea Salamina. On June 1, 1967, the Arsenal delegation was received by President Archbishop Makarios III at the Presidential Palace in Nicosia. The events were documented in both the Arsenal F.C. Museum and the archives of the Cyprus Press and Information Office. The 1-1 draw against Arsenal was highlighted by the Cypriot press as a major sporting achievement for the Nicosia club.