Cyprus champions Pafos FC host Bayern Munich at Alphamega Stadium on Tuesday evening in what is set to be the most important game in the club’s history, as they seek to build on a strong start to the Champions League League Phase.
Juan Carlos Carcedo’s side demonstrated their potential at Athens’s Georgios Karaiskakis Stadium where they secured a 0-0 draw against Greek champions Olympiacos, despite playing with 10 men.
Bayern arrive with perfect season record and world-class squad
However, Bayern Munich present a considerably greater challenge. The German giants harbour ambitions of claiming the trophy and arrive in Cyprus with formidable credentials: five consecutive Bundesliga victories, 22 goals scored against three conceded, a 3-1 victory over Chelsea in their competition opener and eight wins from eight matches across all competitions.
Vincent Kompany’s squad features exceptional talent throughout, with Harry Kane—reportedly earning €25 million annually—leading the attack. The England captain is supported by established internationals including Manuel Neuer, Joshua Kimmich, Serge Gnabry and Luis Dias.
Kompany acknowledges Pafos’s seven-match unbeaten European record
At Monday’s pre-match press conference, Kompany acknowledged the challenge posed by the Cypriot champions, who remain unbeaten in seven European fixtures this season.
“It is an important Champions League match. We have respect for Pafos. They have played seven matches and haven’t lost any, so we know what to expect and we truly have great respect for this team. Our objective is clearly to win and take the three points,” the Belgian manager stated.
Addressing Pafos’s tactical approach, Kompany added: “I know how tactically strong a team they are. They have very good organisation, they can come forward with quick movements and exploit the wings. We are prepared for that. However, we also have our own ideas and the keys to succeed.”
The Bayern manager noted his familiarity with several Pafos players. “I was coach to Loucassen and Djimatè. They also have David Luiz, whom I know from my career, as well as Sunjić from the Championship. I know many of them and the coach, which is why I know it will be difficult to beat them.”
Carcedo to field depleted side against Bundesliga leaders
Pafos face the challenge with a depleted squad. Carcedo cannot select Bruno and Pedrão, whilst Correia’s involvement appears unlikely.
Bayern also contend with absentees, lacking Davies, Ito, Musiala, Stanišić and Upamecano.
Bayern midfielder Konrad Laimer stressed the importance of maintaining standards from the outset. “It’s time for the Champions League. We are ready to take the three points. We have prepared properly, we’ve seen how the team plays, they are a good team, they have qualities. If we don’t perform, we will have problems. If we give them space and time, it will be dangerous for them to score.”
The Austrian international also praised Kane’s professionalism: “He is incredible, he works hard, dedicates time and effort. I hope he continues like this.”
Lithuanian referee Manfredas Lukjancukas will officiate, assisted by compatriots Mangirdas Mirauskas and Aleksandras Radius. Vilius Paulauskas serves as fourth official. Spanish official Guillermo Cuadra Fernández will operate as VAR, with fellow Spaniard Javier Iglesias Villanueva as assistant VAR.
Tonight’s game will kick off at 10 pm and will be broadcast on Cytavision5.
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