AEK Larnaca and Pafos FC Share Spoils in Cypriot First Division Stalemate

AEK Larnaca and Pafos FC played out an entertaining 2-2 draw in the Cypriot First Division on May 16, 2026. The match at the AEK Arena featured four goals, a missed penalty, and end-to-end action that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.

The home side started strongly, taking the lead in the 12th minute through a clinical finish from their top scorer. Pafos responded with purpose, equalizing midway through the first half after a slick passing move carved open the Larnaca defense. The tempo remained high, and AEK regained the lead just before half-time from a set piece—a header from a corner kick.

In the second half, Pafos dominated possession but struggled to create clear chances until they were awarded a penalty in the 67th minute. However, the spot-kick was saved by the AEK goalkeeper, keeping his side ahead. Pafos kept pushing and finally got their reward in the 83rd minute, a well-placed shot from the edge of the box that nestled into the bottom corner. Despite late pressure from both sides, neither could find a winner.

Tactical Battle

AEK Larnaca's approach was direct, targeting their tall forwards with crosses and long balls. Pafos, in contrast, preferred short passing through midfield. The game swung on individual moments rather than sustained dominance, with both defenses showing vulnerability.

Standout Players

• AEK Larnaca goalkeeper: The hero of the hour with a crucial penalty save, also made several other stops to keep his team in the match.
• Pafos midfield general: Dictated the tempo after halftime and scored the equalizer.

Table Implications

The draw leaves both teams in the mid-table region, with AEK Larnaca now four points behind the European qualification spots. Pafos remain just above the relegation zone, needing to turn draws into wins in the coming weeks.