Anorthosis prepares for friendly match against APOEL

Anorthosis Famagusta is intensifying its preparations for the upcoming Cyprus League season as the team gears up for a high-profile friendly match against APOEL, scheduled for Sunday, August 16, 2026. This match is considered a significant test for coach Nestor El Maestro, who is utilizing the preseason period to experiment with new tactical systems and integrate his squad ahead of the league's commencement.

During the previous friendly match against Nea Salamina, which ended in a 2-2 draw, the team displayed inconsistent form partly due to the absence of key players. Coach El Maestro is expected to field his strongest available lineup against APOEL, with the return of several critical players who missed the previous game, specifically Mindendorp, Kiss, Van Rhijn, and Furtado, who was previously rested. These players are integral parts of the projected starting eleven for the upcoming season.

The coaching staff continues to evaluate the squad's physical condition and tactical cohesion as they face ongoing challenges, including issues related to a team transfer embargo. The upcoming fixture against APOEL will serve as a crucial benchmark for determining the starting eleven for the official championship opener against AEL.