Key Takeaways:
- Pafos achieved their first ever main phase Champions League victory last night, defeating Villarreal 1-0 in Limassol
- Derrick Luckassen netted the decisive goal in the 47th minute, securing a third clean sheet for Pafos in the competition
- Villarreal suffered their third defeat and remain on just one point, while Pafos climb to 5 points in the standings
Match Overview
Pafos entered the annals of European football history last night, claiming a famous 1-0 win against Villarreal in Limassol. The Cypriot champions, making their debut in the main phase of the Champions League, earned a memorable victory courtesy of a goal from Dutch centre-back Derrick Luckassen two minutes after the interval.
The win was built on a foundation of resilience and organisation, as Pafos resisted Villarreal’s attacking efforts and capitalised on their opportunity early in the second half. Luckassen’s header in the 47th minute proved decisive for the hosts, who were both measured in their approach and clinical when it mattered.
Pafos' first-ever win in league phase 👏#UCL pic.twitter.com/32Ql0sEtoE
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) November 5, 2025
Performance Analysis
Pafos now sit on 5 points following this result, having previously registered two draws and one defeat. Of particular note is their defensive solidity – this match marked the third clean sheet in their Champions League campaign. Conversely, Villarreal’s disappointing performance leaves the Spanish side with just a single point from their group matches, after enduring their third loss to date.
During the first half, Villarreal spurned two clear opportunities to open the scoring, failing to convert either chance. Despite their pressure, the visitors were unable to find the net throughout the evening, while Pafos’s structured defending and disciplined approach frustrated the La Liga outfit.
| Team | Goals Scored | Clean Sheets | Points | Current Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pafos | 1 | 3 | 5 | 1 win, 2 draws, 1 loss |
| Villarreal | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 wins, 1 draw, 3 losses |
Upcoming Fixtures
Looking ahead, Pafos are set to play at home once more in their next Champions League fixture, hosting Monaco on 26 November. Villarreal will travel to face Borussia Dortmund a day earlier as the main phase continues.
