Big European Week for Cyprus: Pafos Fight Back, Omonoia Triumph, AEK Stand Firm

Pafos 2-2 Monaco

Pafos drew 2–2 with Monaco at the Alphamega Stadium in the 5th round of the Champions League League Phase.

Minamino opened the scoring in the 5th minute, but David Luiz equalised in the 17th. Monaco quickly restored their lead in the 26th through Balogun after a big mistake by goalkeeper Michail. Pafos, however, had the final say, equalising in the 88th minute thanks to a Salisu own goal after a Sunjic header hit the post.

Monaco controlled most of the match, but Pafos had their moments and used set-pieces to hurt the visitors twice. Juan Carlos Carcedo’s players showed character and spirit, earning a valuable point that keeps their qualification dream alive. Both teams now sit on six points with three matches left.

Omonoia 2-1 Dynamo Kyiv

Omonoia earned their first win of the League Phase with a deserved 2–0 over Dynamo Kyiv. Semedo opened the scoring from the spot after Andreou was brought down, and Neophytou doubled the lead in the second half, first hitting the bar before heading in the rebound. Dynamo had their moments – Omonoia’s keeper Uzoho was sharp – but the hosts controlled the key phases and saw out the match comfortably. With this result, Omonoia move up to five points and keep their qualification hopes very much alive.

Rijeka 0-0 AEK

AEK maintained their unbeaten European run with a disciplined and well-earned 0–0 draw away to Rijeka, moving to eight points and remaining firmly in contention for qualification. The team has now completed four consecutive matches in the League Phase without conceding, underlining both their organisation and resilience.

AEK were the stronger side in the opening half hour, creating clear chances through Ivanović and Bajic and briefly threatening to take full control. Rijeka gradually grew into the match and increased their pressure, but Alomerović produced another composed European performance, dealing confidently with every dangerous moment.

The second half opened up even more. Bajic found the net with a header, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside, while Rijeka pushed through long-range efforts and set pieces. AEK’s defensive structure held firm throughout, despite fatigue and a rising number of challenges as the match approached its conclusion.

A notable point of discussion was the officiating. Referee Rob Hennessy delivered an inconsistent performance, failing to caution any Rijeka players until deep into added time, despite several clear incidents warranting disciplinary action. His decision to book Milicevic after the defender appeared to be fouled further heightened frustration.

Overall, AEK showed maturity, defensive stability and tactical discipline, earning a valuable point that keeps them well positioned heading into the final two decisive fixtures of the group stage.