Nea Salamis and Anorthosis Famagusta FC played out an entertaining 2-2 draw in an international club friendly on 13 August 2026. The Cypriot derby had plenty of competitive edge despite its pre-season status, with both teams sharing four goals and each taking their turn to control the tempo.

Derby Action in Larnaca

The match quickly developed into an open affair in the heat of the Cypriot summer. Anorthosis Famagusta looked the sharper of the two sides in the opening exchanges and took a deserved lead with a well-placed finish after breaking through the Nea Salamis midfield line. That goal appeared to wake the hosts, who responded with more intent and equalised before the half-hour mark through a goal that came from a swift counter-attack.

After the interval, both coaching staffs made multiple changes, disrupting the rhythm of the game but also giving squad players a chance to shine. Nea Salamis pushed ahead with a composed strike from close range, but Anorthosis showed resilience and fought back to level the scores with a late header from a corner. The final whistle brought a fair reflection of the balance of play.

Key Moments

• Anorthosis opened the scoring with a slick move that exposed the hosts’ left flank.
• Nea Salamis levelled with a clinical transition goal, showcasing their attacking speed.
• The visitors’ set-piece equaliser in the closing minutes was the last meaningful chance.

What It Means for Both Teams

For Nea Salamis, the draw provides useful continuity ahead of the new season. Their ability to come from behind and then retake the lead shows character, while the late equaliser they conceded highlights the need for sharper concentration in the final minutes.

Anorthosis Famagusta will be satisfied with their fitness levels and attacking output. A friendly that finishes 2-2 against a familiar rival gives the coaching staff plenty of video material to analyse, particularly in terms of defensive shape and game management.