When Paphos faced off against Dinamo City, everyone expected that, more or less, the “Blues” would be able to secure a spot in the Conference League Phase relatively easily.
In the end, they did advance, but the team from Tirana proved to be a tougher opponent than expected.
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
They may have lacked quality and experience, but armed with passion, intense running, and tactical maneuvers involving time-wasting and fouls, they forced the “blue” team to go into overtime in their rematch before finally prevailing 4-2.
After the match ended, Ricardo Sa Pinto admitted at the press conference that he repeatedly urged his players to stay calm, which indeed proved to be one of the most important factors as the match unfolded.
On the field, Ngamaleu was the undisputed star, as he not only delivered the… perfect cross to Ioannou for the 2-1 goal, but he was also the one who, when the pressure was on in extra time, took the initiative to test his luck from the edge of the box, beating the outstanding Tetsia with a rocket for the 3-2 lead, allowing his team to take the upper hand in the tie, which Anderson then sealed.
Thus, Paphos continued its European campaign while also writing another golden chapter in its history, achieving its third consecutive qualification to the League Phase. Their debut came during the 2024–25 season in the third-tier club competition, followed by last year’s appearance in the Champions League.
Now, the “Blues” are turning their attention to today’s (August 28, 3:00 p.m.) draw, hoping for the easiest possible opponents.
