AEL Limassol suffers double injury blow following opening win against Anorthosis

AEL Limassol secured a 2-0 victory against Anorthosis in the opening match of the Cyprus League by Stoiximan on August 30, 2026, at the Alphamega Stadium. Hamza Catakovic opened the scoring in the 42nd minute, and Yannick Gomis added a second in the 50th minute. However, the victory was heavily overshadowed by serious injuries to both goalscorers, leaving the team and management in a state of shock rather than celebration. Anorthosis finished the game with ten men following a red card for Van Rhijn during the incident involving Gomis.

Medical examinations conducted on August 31 confirmed the worst-case scenarios for both players. Yannick Gomis sustained an ankle dislocation and a fibula fracture, requiring surgery and an estimated six-month recovery period. Hamza Catakovic was diagnosed with an ACL rupture, which will also sideline him for several months. These injuries have forced the AEL technical staff, led by Hugo Martins, to reconsider their current squad planning. The club has pledged full support to both players during their rehabilitation. Catakovic has already issued a public message thanking the fans for their support and promising a strong comeback.