Cyprus national team faces Latvia in crucial Nations League match

The Cyprus national football team is preparing to face Latvia at the Skonto Stadium in Riga today, September 28, 2026, at 19:00. This match marks the second round of the UEFA Nations League, League C, Group 2. Cyprus enters the game seeking a recovery after a disappointing 1-2 defeat to Montenegro in their opening fixture, despite a debut goal from Edwards in the 55th minute.

Coach Apostolos Mantzios has emphasized the need for a tactical reaction and a win to keep the team's promotion aspirations alive. The squad faces personnel challenges, with Konstantinos Laifis and Sielis sidelined due to injuries, while Paraskevas, Siikkis, and Antoniou have been excluded from the matchday squad. Mantzios has signaled four changes to the starting lineup, including the introduction of Artymatas, Kostis, Loizou, and Tsaroulla to freshen the team's approach. In a separate development, the Cyprus U-19 team recently lost a friendly match against Moldova with a score of 2-1, with Kalogirou scoring for the Cypriots.

Following tonight's match, Cyprus is scheduled to play two home games against Armenia and Latvia at the GSP Stadium on October 2 and October 5, 2026, respectively. The group winner will earn promotion to League B, while the second-placed team will compete in the play-offs.