Pafos FC's Champions League Journey: From Local Club to European Stage

Tue Oct 21 2025 04:09:00 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Cypriot side Pafos FC makes history with its Champions League debut, showcasing an incredible rise in just over a decade. Highlights of their achievement include victories over renowned teams and the signing of football legend David Luiz.

Pafos FC, a Cypriot football club established in 2014, has achieved a remarkable feat by qualifying for the Champions League, starting with a match against Olympiakos. Under the leadership of coach Juan Carlos Carcedo and with star player David Luiz now on their roster, Pafos has transformed from a lesser-known team to a competitive force in European football. Their journey includes recent successes in the Conference League and winning their first league title, marking a historic milestone for the club.

Pafos FC's Champions League Journey: From Local Club to European Stage

Cypriot side Pafos FC will make their Champions League debut on Wednesday, marking an incredible journey that began just 11 years ago.

The club, formed from a merger of two local teams in 2014, has made significant strides in recent years, including reaching the last 16 of the Conference League last season and securing their first league title.

Pafos is one of only two teams making their debut in this season's Champions League, having impressive victories over teams like Maccabi Tel-Aviv and Red Star Belgrade to secure their spot.

With an exciting league phase ahead, including matches against top teams like Bayern Munich and Chelsea, the excitement is palpable. Everybody was in ecstasy, said David Luiz, the former Brazil and Chelsea defender who joined Pafos in August, highlighting the club's unexpected rise to the Champions League.

Luiz expressed his joy at being part of this historic moment, stating, I think we can do something special. Pafos aims not just to participate but to make a mark in their European adventures, showcasing their talent on a global stage.

This remarkable journey has been supported by the passionate fans of Cyprus, energizing the team as they embark on this new chapter in their history.