Anorthosis started their Europa campaign with a convincing 3-0 victory over Swedish side IF Gefle in the first leg of the second qualifying round on Thursday, at Larnaca’s Antonis Papadopoulos Stadium.
Christakis Kassianos’ men took the lead through Gonzalo Garcia, who slotted home from the penalty spot in the 12th minute, after Anders Wikström brought down Christakis Marangos inside the area.
Garcia was involved in his team’s second goal, which came just after the half-hour mark, as his shot was deflected into the net by Argentinean forward Roberto Colautti.
Colautti then set up the final score seven minutes before the final whistle, beating Emil Hedvall in Gefle’s goal after a great pass by inspiring Israeli midfielder Moshe Ohayon.
Meanwhile, Nicosia powerhouse Omonia, played out a 1-1 draw away from home against Romanian outfit FC Astra Giurgiu. After trailing in the first half, Joao Paulo Andrade levelled the score for Omonia midway into the second half.
The second legs are scheduled for next Thursday, while the draw for the third qualifying round takes place on Friday at 1pm CET in Nyon.
Cyprus Mail