Pafos FC forward Zaza suffers season-ending ACL injury

Pafos FC forward Zaza has sustained a serious knee injury during the Europa League qualifying match against Hajduk Split on July 30, 2026. The Brazilian player fell to the pitch shortly after his team's goal in the 40th minute. Although he attempted to return to the field after an initial assessment, he was ultimately unable to continue and was helped off the pitch to the dressing room before halftime.

Following the match, the club announced that medical examinations, including an MRI, confirmed a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). This diagnosis is a significant blow to the team, as Zaza was considered a key player in the tactical plans of manager Ricardo Sa Pinto. The injury effectively rules the forward out of action for an extended period, marking a difficult development for the club as they navigate their European campaign.