AEK Larnaca wins league opener against APOEL under new coach Ruben Selles

On August 29, 2026, AEK Larnaca secured a 3-1 victory over APOEL in the opening match of the league season. The match marked the debut of Spanish coach Ruben Selles, who implemented a high-pressing tactical approach that disrupted the opposition's defensive build-up play. AEK capitalized on their dominance in the air, scoring two goals from headers during the first half to establish a commanding lead.

Coach Selles expressed pride in his players' responsiveness to his new philosophy despite having only two days of training with the squad. While pleased with the result, he noted the team’s need for better consistency throughout the 90 minutes after losing some control in the second half. The match was physically demanding, resulting in injury concerns for players Amin and Pileas, whose conditions will be evaluated in the coming days.

Defensively, Milicevic and Saborit were instrumental for AEK, effectively neutralizing APOEL's aerial attacks throughout most of the game. Although APOEL managed a chance that hit the post via Georgiou, the Larnaca side maintained a clinical performance. Selles emphasized that the team is still in the early stages of development and faces a long season ahead with significant room for improvement.