Carabali Stuns Larnaca as Beitar Steal 1-0 Conference League Win

Beitar Jerusalem Steal Late Win Against 10-Man AEK Larnaca

Brayan Carabali’s 77th-minute strike gave Beitar Jerusalem a smash-and-grab 1-0 victory over 10-man AEK Larnaca in a fiery Europa Conference League second qualifying round clash at AEK Arena. The Cypriot hosts dominated possession but collapsed after Mike van der Hoorn’s red card, leaving their European dreams hanging by a thread.

AEK Larnaca’s Frustration Builds

The Cypriots started brightly, pinning Beitar back with Amor Layouni and Riad Bajic probing down the flanks. But their momentum stalled when Van der Hoorn saw red for a reckless 75th-minute challenge on Yarden Shua – the Dutch defender’s studs-up lunge leaving referee Juxhin Xhaja no choice. Mauro Camoranesi’s men had already made all five substitutions, forcing midfielder Gus Ledes into a makeshift centre-back role.

Beitar Jerusalem’s Tactical Masterstroke

Almog Cohen’s triple substitution in the 57th minute proved inspired – Shua and Eugene Ansah making way for target man Shon Weissman and pacy winger John Kalu. The changes stretched Larnaca’s tiring defence before Carabali struck, the Colombian centre-back turning predator to volley home from close range after a goalmouth scramble. Beitar’s back four held firm despite late pressure, with Miguel Silva making crucial saves to preserve the lead.

What This Means for Both Sides

For Beitar, this smash-and-grab victory gives them a priceless away goal ahead of next week’s second leg in Jerusalem. AEK Larnaca must now overturn the deficit without suspended captain Van der Hoorn – a mountain to climb for a side that’s won just one of their last eight European home games. The Cypriots’ Europa Conference League dream hangs by a thread after 90 minutes of frustration turned to despair.

Key Moments

75′ 🟥 AEK Larnaca — M. van der Hoorn sent off

77′ ⚽ Beitar Jerusalem — B. Carabali

🔮 Before kick-off: our match preview & prediction.