AEK Larnaca takes early lead against APOEL in championship opener

On August 29, 2026, AEK Larnaca faced APOEL Nicosia at the Arena stadium in the opening match of the Cypriot First Division championship. The home team established a 2-0 lead during the first half of the encounter.

Slovenian midfielder Jan Repas opened the scoring in the 27th minute by heading a cross from Pileas into the net, with the ball reportedly deflecting off Laifis. Ten minutes later, in the 38th minute, AEK extended its lead following a free kick taken by Lendes. A header by Milicevic led to an own goal by APOEL defender Kostas Stafylidis, who inadvertently directed the ball into his own net while attempting to defend.

This match marks the commencement of the new football season in Cyprus. The victory effectively places AEK in a strong position early in the fixture, while sources note a problematic start for the visiting APOEL side.