Pafos managed to secure a 2-2 draw against Monaco in the Champions League, thanks to a late own goal by Mohammed Salisu. David Luiz had earlier equalised with a powerful header after Takumi Minamino's early goal for Monaco. Despite Folarin Balogun restoring Monaco's lead, Pafos' persistence paid off when Mons Bassouamina's header hit the woodwork and rebounded off Salisu into the net.
David Luiz, at 38 years and 218 days, became the second-oldest player to score in the Champions League. Only Pepe, who scored at 40 years and 290 days for Porto, surpasses him. Luiz also holds the record as the oldest outfield player to start a team's first five matches in a Champions League season since Pavel Horvath in 2013-14.
The second-oldest scorer in Champions
League history David Luiz #UCL pic.twitter.com/z2yX4vYhiB
- UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) November 26, 2025
Pafos demonstrated their set-piece prowess early on. After Minamino's fifth-minute goal for Monaco, Luiz levelled with a commanding header. Although Balogun capitalised on a defensive error to put Monaco ahead again, they failed to extend their lead further. This allowed Pafos to equalise late through Salisu's unfortunate own goal.
Elsewhere in the competition, Kairat Almaty nearly pulled off an impressive comeback against FC Copenhagen. Copenhagen led 3-0 with goals from Viktor Dadason, Jordan Larsson, and Robert Silva. However, Dastan Satpaev and Olzhas Baybek scored late for Kairat, setting up a tense finish. Despite this pressure, Copenhagen held on for their first win of the season.
Luiz's performance was notable beyond his goal-scoring feat. He made six clearances and won all three aerial duels he contested. Additionally, he succeeded in seven out of ten overall duels during the match. His experience and skill were evident throughout the game.
The match between Pafos and Monaco highlighted both teams' strengths and weaknesses. While Monaco showed attacking flair with early goals, Pafos displayed resilience and tactical discipline to earn a valuable point in the league phase of the competition.
