Beitar Jerusalem Wins Conference League Qualifier Amid Fan Clashes in Larnaca

Beitar Jerusalem began their European season with a 1-0 away victory over AEK Larnaca on July 23, 2026, in the second qualifying round of the UEFA Conference League. The match took place in Larnaca, Cyprus, but was overshadowed by violent clashes between Beitar fans and local supporters before the game. Several dozen Beitar fans were reportedly ambushed during a pre-match march, suffering beatings and stone-throwing attacks. Video footage showed a Beitar supporter being dragged on the ground and severely beaten.

Cypriot police intervened in multiple violent incidents, resulting in the arrest of one Israeli and six Cypriots. Two individuals were injured but did not require intensive medical care; paramedics treated those who were bleeding on site. The night before the match, local media reported that some Beitar fans caused disturbances in the streets, including breaking car mirrors, which ended after a police chase. Beitar Jerusalem denied involvement in these incidents.

On the field, Bruno Carvalli scored the lone goal, giving Beitar a crucial advantage ahead of the second leg scheduled for the following week in Hungary. Despite the off-field violence, the team secured an important win to advance in the competition.