AEL Women produced a dominant performance to win the Cyprus Women's Super Cup, defeating APOP Paphos Women 97-43 on October 4, 2026. The 54-point margin reflected AEL’s control on both ends of the floor, as they claimed the trophy with a complete team effort.

Match Overview

AEL Women set the tone from the opening quarter, using full-court pressure and quick ball movement to overwhelm APOP Paphos Women. The Limassol-based side raced to an early double-digit lead and never looked back. APOP struggled to handle AEL’s defensive intensity, turning the ball over and giving up easy transition baskets. By halftime, the game was already firmly in AEL’s control.

The second half followed a similar pattern. AEL rotated their bench but maintained their defensive standards, while APOP Paphos Women continued to fight but could not find consistent offense. The final quarter allowed AEL’s younger players to gain Super Cup experience, and the team closed out the 97-43 win with the same focus they showed at the start.

Key Moments

• First-quarter surge: AEL opened with a decisive run, forcing multiple turnovers and converting them into points.
• Second-quarter pressure: AEL’s full-court defense extended the lead beyond 30 points before halftime.
• Bench contribution: Reserves maintained the intensity in the second half, ensuring no let-up.

Tactical Story

AEL Women’s game plan was built on defensive aggression and unselfish offense. They trapped ball handlers, rotated quickly in the passing lanes, and turned APOP’s mistakes into transition opportunities. Offensively, AEL shared the ball exceptionally well, with multiple players reaching double figures. APOP Paphos Women tried to slow the game with half-court sets, but AEL’s size and speed made it difficult to generate clean looks. The rebounding battle also favored AEL, limiting second-chance points and allowing them to control the tempo from start to finish.

Standout Performers

• AEL Women guard: Orchestrated the offense with pace and precision, creating open shots for teammates and scoring in transition.
• AEL Women forward: Dominated the paint on both ends, finishing with a strong all-around stat line.
• AEL Women bench: The reserves maintained the defensive pressure and extended the lead in the second half.
• APOP Paphos Women: Despite the score, their guards kept competing and hit several tough shots against a relentless defense.

Trophy Significance and Season Impact

Winning the Cyprus Women's Super Cup gives AEL Women early-season silverware and a confidence boost ahead of the domestic league campaign. The Super Cup is a showcase event in Cypriot women’s basketball, and a 54-point win sends a clear message about AEL’s ambitions. For APOP Paphos Women, the result is a tough learning experience, but it also highlights areas to address before the regular season. AEL will now look to carry this form into their league fixtures, while APOP will regroup and aim to close the gap in future meetings.

What’s Next

AEL Women will celebrate the trophy but quickly turn their attention to the league, where consistency will be key. APOP Paphos Women will work on ball security and half-court execution. The 97-43 final score will be remembered as one of the most one-sided Super Cup finals in recent memory and a statement performance from AEL.