Pafos Earn Historic Victory in Belgrade

Pafos secured a famous 2-1 away win over Red Star Belgrade, taking a significant step towards the UEFA Champions League group stage.

Head coach Juan Carlos Carcedo’s side made the perfect start, taking the lead inside the opening minute. Ivan Šunjić’s pass was met by Correia, who struck a powerful effort past the goalkeeper to silence the home crowd.

Bruno later had the ball in the net himself, but the goal was disallowed after VAR identified a handball in the build-up. Red Star responded with a handful of chances, though goalkeeper Michail was equal to everything thrown at him, allowing Pafos to go into the interval with their advantage intact.

Five minutes into the second half, Pafos doubled their lead. A cross from Bruno was blocked by the hand of a Red Star defender, and Pepe converted confidently from the penalty spot.

Red Star quickly found a lifeline when Bruno conceded a penalty at the other end. Michail saved the initial effort, but the rebound was turned in to make it 2-1. The Serbian champions pushed hard for an equaliser, frequently targeting the flanks and delivering crosses into the box, but Pafos held firm.

In the 77th minute, Red Star were awarded another penalty for handball, only for VAR to intervene again, correctly showing the ball had struck Goldar’s back. Pafos almost restored their two-goal cushion late on, with Oršić and Jajá both going close, but were denied by the goalkeeper and wayward finishing.

The Cypriot champions will now take a slender advantage into the return leg, with a historic place in the Champions League group stage within touching distance.