AEK Athens defeats Sabbianco Anorthosis in EHF European Cup first leg

Sabbianco Anorthosis, the reigning Cypriot handball champion, faced AEK Athens in the second round of the EHF European Cup on October 17, 2026. This match represented the final leg of a record-breaking six-team Cypriot presence in European handball competitions for the 2026-2027 season.

Despite a competitive first half where the score was closely contested at 16-15 in favor of the hosts, Anorthosis struggled in the second half of the match. AEK Athens managed to establish a dominant rhythm, ultimately securing a decisive 37-21 victory. Key contributors for the Cypriot side included Bingo with four goals and Kaimakamis with four goals.

The defeat leaves Anorthosis with a significant challenge ahead as they prepare for the return leg. The team remains focused on the second match, which is scheduled to take place at the Kition Athletic Center in Larnaca on Sunday, October 25, 2026, at 20:15, where they will attempt to overcome the deficit.