Pafos Clinch Historic First League Title with Emphatic Win Over Aris

Pafos FC have been crowned champions of Cyprus for the first time in their history, following a commanding 4-0 victory over second-placed Aris Limassol. Carlos Carcedo’s side entered the match four points clear at the top, knowing that a win would secure the title with two games to spare.

The hosts made a flying start, taking the lead in the 9th minute when João Correia finished from close range. Pafos doubled their advantage in the 37th minute, as Romanian international Vlad Dragomir fired home from the edge of the area past Vana Alves.

Aris found it difficult to break down the Pafos defence and were limited to long-range efforts, both of which were comfortably dealt with by goalkeeper Ivan Ivušić.

Six minutes into the second half, club captain Jairo – making his 159th appearance for the club – made it 3-0 with an acrobatic close-range overhead kick, marking his 12th league goal of the season.

With just eight minutes remaining, Mislav Oršić put the seal on a dominant performance by making it 4-0.

Pafos are worthy champions, having led the league for the majority of the season. Their triumph is all the more remarkable considering the sheer number of matches they have played. Their campaign began as early as 11 July, when they faced Swedish side IF Elfsborg in the Europa League qualifiers.

It’s worth noting that Pafos also reached the Round of 16 in the Conference League and currently hold a 4-2 advantage over Apollon in the semi-finals of the Cyprus Cup – a competition they won last season.

Many predicted Pafos would struggle under the weight of a congested fixture list, particularly given how European commitments have historically hampered the domestic form of Cypriot clubs. However, the team has defied expectations.

While the senior squad is on course for a domestic double, the success extends to the youth level as well. The U19s have secured their own league and cup double this season – their third consecutive league title.

Looking ahead, the future appears exceptionally bright for Pafos. With Champions League qualification on the horizon, proposed redevelopment plans for the Stelios Kyriakides Stadium, continued collaboration with elite European clubs such as Sevilla and Atalanta, and record profits reported for 2024, the club is in a strong position both on and off the pitch.

Backed by financial strength and a clear strategic vision, Pafos look poised to become a dominant force in Cypriot football for years to come. For now, they have set the benchmark – a model of success that others may aspire to follow.