APOEL dominates AEL in Cyprus League clash amid controversy

APOEL Nicosia secured a decisive 6-0 victory over AEL Limassol on September 6, 2026, at the GSP Stadium during the second matchday of the Cyprus League. Goals from Marquinhos, Pedroso (twice), Stafylidis, Maioli, and Peres sealed the win. The match momentum shifted early when the referee, following a VAR review, issued a straight red card to AEL player Kafou for spitting at Limnios. AEL officials contested this decision, claiming the player was merely spitting out gum.

Simultaneously, a separate public dispute has erupted between Anorthosis and Apollon Limassol following their own match on September 5. The clubs are engaged in an intense exchange of press releases regarding disputed refereeing decisions and the use of VAR. Anorthosis publicly accused officials of selective VAR application, while Apollon dismissed these claims, even accusing Anorthosis of using AI to manipulate photographic evidence. Experts, including former referee Giannakis Kyprianidis, have analyzed these controversial incidents, which have become a major talking point in the league.

APOEL, seeking to bounce back from an opening defeat, now prepares for a match against Anorthosis on September 12, while AEL is scheduled to face Nea Salamina on September 11.