Violent incidents at GSP Stadium follow APOEL-AEK football match

On February 8, 2026, violent incidents occurred at the GSP Stadium in Nicosia following a football match between APOEL and AEK Larnaca, which ended in a 2-1 victory for the visiting team. APOEL supporters, dissatisfied with the loss, initially protested against the club's management before the unrest moved outside the stadium. Protesters threw stones and other objects at police officers, who responded by using tear gas to restore order. The Cyprus Police Association reported that the violence escalated into criminal acts involving the total destruction of several police patrol cars and other vehicles. Additionally, some rioters reportedly stole police equipment during the clashes. The Association characterized the destruction as an attack on state property and the taxpayer. Authorities are now utilizing all available means to identify and arrest the individuals involved. No specific number of arrests was confirmed in the provided texts, but police were urged to recover the stolen gear.