AEL secures dramatic 2-1 victory over Nea Salamina in Cyprus League opener

AEL Limassol opened the third matchday of the Cyprus League by Stoiximan with a dramatic 2-1 home victory against Nea Salamina at the Alphamega Stadium on September 11, 2026. The match remained tense until the final moments, when AEL defender Diogo Gomes scored a stoppage-time header in the 90+6th minute to secure the win for his side.

The hosts initially took the lead in the 43rd minute through a penalty converted by Conceicao following a handball by Konate. Nea Salamina equalized in the 53rd minute through Grancir. The visitors were reduced to ten men late in the game after Angielski received a second yellow card in the 90+4th minute. Earlier in the match, Nea Salamina had missed a significant opportunity to score when Giousis failed to convert a first-half penalty.

Following a heavy 6-0 defeat to APOEL in the previous round, AEL manager Hugo Martins expressed satisfaction with his team's mental resilience and fighting spirit despite difficulties in attacking organization. Nea Salamina manager Angel Lopez voiced strong objections regarding the officiating. AEL now looks forward to an away match against Pafos FC on September 18, while Nea Salamina is set to host Anorthosis on September 19.