AEK Larnaca advances to cup next round after struggling against Akritas Chlorakas

On October 21, 2026, AEK Larnaca secured a difficult 3-2 victory over second-division side Akritas Chlorakas in the first round of the Cypriot Cup at the AEK Arena. Despite the win, the team's performance was widely criticized as mediocre and disappointing, leading to apologies from club management to their supporters.

Akritas took an early lead through Pozatzidis in the 9th minute. AEK responded with goals from Andereggen (35th minute penalty) and Chacon (90+1 minute), but Dramé equalized for the visitors in the 90+6 minute, forcing the game into extra time. Defender Milicevic finally sealed the victory in the 102nd minute by converting a penalty. The match was marked by high tension and three VAR-assisted penalties for AEK. Andereggen was sent off in the 72nd minute with a straight red card for a foul on Dramé and will miss the next two matches, including the upcoming league derby against Omonia.

Club spokesperson Kyriakos Dimitriou and head coach Rubén Sellés publicly expressed deep dissatisfaction with the team's lackluster showing. AEK is currently focusing on immediate improvements to prepare for their high-stakes league clash against Omonia scheduled for Monday, October 26.