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Paphos FC – Sensational Champions League promotion against Red Star!
Milos Veljkovic and Marko Arnautovic fail in Champions League qualification with Red Star Belgrade, Paphos FC moves in.
Paphos FC – Sensational Champions League promotion against Red Star!
In the exciting world of football, there is good news from Cyprus: Paphos FC has qualified for the Champions League for the first time in the club's history. This came after they eliminated Red Star Belgrade, former Conference League Round of 16 teams, in the crucial playoffs. After a 2-1 win in the first leg, the second leg on August 29, 2025 was a nerve-wracking duel that ended 1-1. Thanks to the rule that weights the away goal, the overall victory is enough to get into the coveted European football tournament. The Cypriots now proudly play among the best teams in Europe.
The first focus of this exciting match was Red Star Belgrade, who took the lead after a goal from Mirko Ivanic in the 60th minute. But the sovereignty only lasted for a short time, as in the end Jaja from Paphos managed to equalize in the 89th minute. Jaja thus becomes the hero of the game and ensured his team's entry into the Champions League. Milos Veljkovic was on the pitch throughout for Belgrade, while Marko Arnautovic came on as a substitute in the 56th minute but was unable to turn the tide.
A milestone for Paphos FC
Founded in 2014, Paphos FC established themselves as Cypriot champions last season. This glorious achievement brings the young club, who were quickly making a name for themselves, the opportunity to compete against top teams in European football. This is not only a triumph for the club, but also a significant signal for Cypriot football as a whole.
In contrast, Red Star Belgrade will compete in the group stage of the Europa League next season after being defeated in the Champions League qualification. So the players of the traditional club now have to prove that they still have European caliber despite this setback.
A new wind in the Champions League
The exciting news is not just reserved for Paphos FC. Almaty from Kazakhstan also prevailed in this qualifying round and secured their ticket to the Champions League. They won a hard-fought second leg against Celtic Glasgow on penalties. Almaty, together with Paphos, is also celebrating its debut on the big European stage.
The group stage draw will take place on Thursday at 6 p.m. in Monaco. The fans are eagerly awaiting the result to find out which well-known opponents their teams will have to face.
Overall, it can be said that European football is constantly evolving and has many surprises in store. Paphos FC's triumph has shown that anything is possible in football and the coming months promise to be exciting.
For more information about the exciting action in the Champions League, take a look at the articles from Dike room, Kicker and Ran.