Anorthosis secures first league win of the season against APOEL

Anorthosis Famagusta achieved their first victory of the 2026 Cyprus League season on September 12, defeating APOEL Nicosia 2-1 at the Antonis Papadopoulos stadium. The match was decided by a penalty from Kiko and a late header by Rafa Lopes in the 90th minute. APOEL's debutant Tasos Bakasetas scored his team's only goal, but the performance of Anorthosis, bolstered by the return of captain Kostakis Artymatas and midfielder Stijn Middendorp to the starting lineup, secured the win.

This crucial victory comes after the team faced two consecutive defeats to AEL and Apollon at the start of the campaign. Following the match, the club announced they have surpassed 5,000 season ticket sales and are now aiming for 6,000. Manager Nestor El Maestro expressed pride in his squad’s resilience and tactical discipline throughout the derby.

The win provides a morale boost for Anorthosis ahead of the upcoming 'derby of the refugees' against Nea Salamina on September 19. Due to limited ticket availability, only 450 fans will attend the away match, while the club prepares for further competitive challenges in the league.