APOEL defeats AEL Limassol 6-0 as pressure mounts on Hugo Martins

On September 6, 2026, APOEL secured a decisive 6-0 victory against AEL Limassol in the second matchday of the championship. The match was marked by AEL's poor performance and tactical challenges, leaving the team and its manager, Hugo Martins, in a precarious position. Following the defeat, reports suggest that the management of AEL is currently evaluating the overall situation and the future of the coach.

In his post-match comments, Hugo Martins apologized to the fans for the scoreline and performance, citing difficulties in controlling certain aspects of the game, including officiating decisions and playing with a numerical disadvantage. Meanwhile, APOEL coach Nikos Papadopoulos expressed satisfaction with his team's dominant display. He confirmed that no further player transfers are planned unless an exceptional prospect emerges, and granted his squad a one-day celebration period before resuming training.