Helmond Sport 1–2 AEK Larnaca
International Club Friendly | July 4, 2026

Match Overview

AEK Larnaca of the Cypriot First Division came from behind to defeat Dutch Eerste Divisie side Helmond Sport 2‑1 in a pre‑season friendly at the GS Staalwerken Stadium on 4 July 2026. The match offered a stern test for both teams as they build towards their respective domestic seasons.

First‑Half Battle

Helmond Sport started confidently and created the better openings in the opening quarter. Their persistence paid off in the 27th minute when a deflected shot from outside the box looped over the AEK goalkeeper and into the net. The home side held the lead until half‑time, though AEK Larnaca gradually found their rhythm, forcing a fine save from the Helmond keeper in stoppage time.

AEK’s Second‑Half Response

The visitors came out with greater intensity after the interval. They equalised on 55 minutes through a well‑worked move that ended with a low finish into the bottom corner. The goal lifted AEK, and they began to dominate possession.

The winner came with 15 minutes remaining. A speculative long‑range effort took a deflection off a Helmond defender, wrong‑footing the goalkeeper and nestling into the net. Helmond pushed for a late equaliser but were kept at bay by a disciplined AEK defence.

Notable Aspects

• Helmond Sport’s bright first half showed their potential, particularly in midfield transitions.
• AEK Larnaca’s experience told in the second half, as they managed the game effectively after going behind.
• The fixture provided both managers with valuable data on player fitness and tactical flexibility.

AEK Larnaca will take heart from their resilience, while Helmond Sport can build on the positives from their strong start as pre‑season continues.