Pafos FC eliminates AEL Limassol from Cyprus Cup, coach Hugo Martins to remain
Pafos FC advanced to the Cyprus Cup final after defeating AEL Limassol with a 3-1 victory in the second leg, securing a 5-2 aggregate win. Despite AEL taking an early lead, defensive errors by goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa allowed Pafos to stage a comeback. This elimination marks the end of a difficult season for AEL, as the team failed to qualify for the top six of the league and will not participate in European competitions. AEL officials have reportedly decided to renew the contract of head coach Hugo Martins, expressing faith in his ability to lead the team next season. Club president Konstantinos Konstantinou aims to rebuild the roster, with many contracts expiring, including those of Ochoa, Stefanovic, and others, as well as the end of loans for Savio and Maseko. The team has four remaining league matches that are now considered purely procedural. Meanwhile, Pafos FC has reached the cup final for the third consecutive year, seeking a trophy to stabilize a season marked by internal administrative issues and coaching changes.