As the global football community mourns the loss of English legend Kevin Keegan, fans across Cyprus are remembering the remarkable moments when one of the game’s greatest figures graced the island’s pitches.
The two-time Ballon d’Or winner passed away at the age of 75, prompting tributes from Liverpool, Hamburg, Newcastle United, and across world football. While Keegan built his reputation on the grandest stages in Europe, he also formed a notable connection to Cypriot sports history through a series of exhibition visits during the 1980s.
A blue-and-white debut for Anorthosis in 1984
Keegan’s first major connection to Cypriot football came shortly after his professional playing career drew to a close. In 1984, former Liverpool teammate Peter Cormack, who was managing Anorthosis Famagusta at the time, reached out to Keegan with a unique request: to put on the blue-and-white shirt for a friendly against Omonoia Nicosia.
Keegan accepted the invitation, giving local fans a rare chance to see “King Kev” live in action.
Following news of his passing, Anorthosis paid emotional tribute to the former England captain, acknowledging the historic occasion in an official statement:
“Farewell to football legend Kevin Keegan.
Today, football mourns the loss of a truly great player and person. Kevin Keegan left an indelible mark on the history of the game, and Anorthosis had the honour of seeing him represent our club.
We remember with great respect the moment the legendary ‘King Kev’ wore the shirt of the ‘Great Lady’ in that historic friendly against Omonoia in 1984 – a moment that remains forever etched in the memory of our club.
Rest in peace, Kevin.”
Anorthosis have paid tribute to English football legend Kevin Keegan following his passing.
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Full statement:
"Farewell to football legend Kevin Keegan.
Today, football mourns the loss of a truly great player and person. Kevin Keegan left an indelible mark on the history of the… pic.twitter.com/BTsQORjkrM
Sharing the stage with George Best in Nicosia
Three years later, in May 1987, Keegan returned to Nicosia for another landmark event, the “Cyprus Super Cup.” The friendly tournament brought together local giants APOEL FC and Omonoia FC alongside English clubs Arsenal and Luton Town.
The tournament featured two iconic figures in British footballing history as special guest players: Kevin Keegan lined up for APOEL, while Northern Irish legend George Best represented Omonoia.
Inspiring students at The English School
During that same trip in 1987, Keegan took time away from the tournament to visit the campus of The English School in Nicosia. He spent time coaching the school’s football squad, passing on advice and leading training drills for the young players.
The English School Old Boys & Girls Association (ESOBGA) remembered his visit following the news of his death, celebrating his willingness to engage with the local community:
“We are proud to share this special connection with a true football icon and remember him not only for his remarkable achievements on the pitch, but also for the inspiration he brought to our school community.”
From wearing the Anorthosis jersey to sharing a pitch with George Best and coaching local schoolboys, Kevin Keegan left a lasting impression on the island. It is rare for a global superstar of his status to have such personal ties to Cypriot football, and that made his visits a unique and cherished piece of local sports history.
