AEK Larnaca defeats APOEL 3-1 in league opener
AEK Larnaca secured a decisive 3-1 victory against APOEL in their opening match of the 2026 Cyprus League season, held at the AEK Arena on August 29, 2026. This match marked the debut of AEK’s new manager, Ruben Selles, who took charge just four days prior to the event.
AEK dominated the game, taking a 2-0 lead in the first half through a 27th-minute goal by Repas and an own goal by Stafylidis in the 38th minute. In the second half, Chacon extended the lead to 3-0 in the 80th minute, marking a return to action after a ten-month absence. APOEL managed a consolation goal by Avraamidis in the 89th minute, while their player Dalsio was sent off with a second yellow card during stoppage time. APOEL manager Nikos Papadopoulos attributed the defeat to defensive errors and poor set-piece management.
Following this result, AEK is scheduled to play away against Nea Salamina next Saturday, while APOEL will host AEL at the GSP Stadium on the same day. Both managers acknowledged that their respective teams require further improvement as the season progresses.