AEK Larnaca eliminated from UEFA Conference League by Beitar Jerusalem
On July 30, 2026, AEK Larnaca was eliminated from the UEFA Conference League after a penalty shootout loss to Beitar Jerusalem in the second qualifying round. Following a 0-1 defeat in the first leg, AEK forced extra time by winning 3-2 in the return match at the Ilie Oană Stadium in Ploiești, Romania. Hrvoje Miličević scored twice for AEK, including a penalty and a free kick, while Bajić added the third goal in the 90+2nd minute. Beitar responded through Omer Atzili, who scored a penalty and a late long-range strike.
With the aggregate score tied at 3-3, the match proceeded to penalties, where the Israeli side secured a 4-3 victory. AEK coach Mauro Camoranesi expressed pride in his team's effort despite the early exit. The club will receive 525,000 euros in UEFA participation bonuses, but the defeat marks a significant financial and sporting setback compared to their previous successful European campaigns. Beitar Jerusalem now advances to the third qualifying round of the competition.