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Violent fan clashes in Larnaca ahead of AEK and Beitar Jerusalem match

Violent clashes erupted in Larnaca between fans of AEK Larnaca and Beitar Jerusalem ahead of their UEFA Conference League qualifying match on July 23, 2026. Trouble began as early as Wednesday, July 22, when Beitar supporters caused damage and disturbances across the city. On match day, tensions escalated outside the AEK Arena, where police were forced to deploy the 'Aiantas' anti-riot water cannon vehicle to restore order after fighting broke out. Israeli media reported claims from Beitar fans alleging they were ambushed and stoned by local groups, while Cypriot police indicated that confusion at stadium entry gates contributed to the unrest as fans sought shelter in parking areas.

Following the incidents, authorities arrested a total of seven individuals, including six Cypriot nationals and one 24-year-old Israeli supporter. The Israeli man appeared before the Larnaca District Court on July 24 and was fined 1,200 euros for assaulting police officers, a sum he has since paid. While Israeli officials, including the Ministry for Diaspora Affairs and Combating Antisemitism, expressed concern over the violence, the match itself proceeded as scheduled. Police continue to investigate circulating videos that depict physical assaults to determine if additional participants in the violence can be identified.

Original Sources

Football fan brutally beaten outside AEK Arena in Larnaca
Sigmalive English · 24 July 2026, 10:19