The Rise of Pafos FC: Champions League Debut
Cypriot side Pafos FC is poised to make its long-awaited Champions League debut this Wednesday, a remarkable achievement given the club was established only 11 years ago.
In recent years, Pafos has gained prominence in the football community by playing in Europe for the first time last season, reaching the Conference League Round of 16 and securing their first league title. Continuing their ascent, they have successfully navigated three rounds of qualification, positioning themselves to join elite football teams in the Champions League group stages.
Pafos's qualifying campaign included victories over well-known names such as Maccabi Tel-Aviv, Dynamo Kyiv, and Red Star Belgrade. Their first match in the group phase will be against Olympiakos in Greece, with later matches set against Football's giants, including Bayern Munich and Chelsea.
Former Brazil and Chelsea defender David Luiz, who joined the club earlier this season, expressed the excitement surrounding this significant milestone. Everybody was in ecstasy, he said, reflecting on qualifying for the prestigious tournament. We did something amazing. Nobody expected us to be in the Champions League this season. I’m very happy to be here because I can see this feeling, with everybody’s hunger, to do something great.
A Brief History of Pafos FC
Pafos FC was formed in 2014 through a merger of two regional clubs. However, it wasn't until 2017, following a takeover by Russian businessman Roman Dubov, that the club began its transformation into a competitive force. A clear vision was established to not only build a successful football club but also to create a lasting impact within the community.
Pafos experienced ups and downs, adapting their strategies while dealing with the fluctuating popularity associated with football in Cyprus. The organization's turnaround gained momentum when Spaniard Juan Carlos Carcedo took over as head coach in June 2023, leading the club to its first Cup victory last season.
Luiz's arrival is notable not just for his stature as a player, but for the potential to elevate Pafos FC's profile and attract a larger fanbase. Current Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides is a passionate supporter of the team and celebrated their recent successes with enthusiasm, showcasing how intertwined the football club is with the region's identity.
Pafos FC’s groundbreaking presence in the Champions League is not just a testament to their hard work but also a significant moment for Cypriot football. With anticipation mounting, they are ready to take their place on the international stage, aiming to prove that they belong among the top clubs in Europe.
