APOEL suffers 2-1 defeat against Anorthosis following internal roster changes

APOEL lost 2-1 to Anorthosis on September 12, 2026, during the third matchday of the Cyprus League, marking their second defeat in two away games this season. Coach Nikos Papadopoulos was forced to reshuffle his starting eleven due to the absence of key defender Konstantinos Laifis, who was sidelined with a quadriceps injury, and the suspended Dalsio. These vacancies were filled by Nikolas Aggelopoulos and Barak.

Despite a debut goal from Tasos Bakasetas that leveled the score at 1-1 in the second half, APOEL failed to maintain momentum, conceding a decisive goal in the 90+1st minute. The match was further complicated by forced substitutions due to injuries to Aggelopoulos and Marquinhos in the second half. Following the loss, coach Papadopoulos expressed dissatisfaction with his team's lack of intensity and decision-making, specifically criticizing their defensive performance.

While the club recently underwent significant roster restructuring, including the departure of 18 players and the addition of ten new ones, Papadopoulos confirmed there would be no further transfers. The team is now focused on recovering from these setbacks as they prepare for their upcoming match against Apollon in the fourth round of the league.