How did Cyprus perform in their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign?

Cyprus missed out on the 2026 World Cup after winning just twice in eight games and accumulating only eight points in their qualifying group.

What is the current ranking of the Cyprus national team?

Cyprus is currently ranked 125th in the world.

How have Estonia fared in their recent international matches?

Estonia has won just once from nine games this year, a 3-2 victory over Moldova in a World Cup qualifier back in March. Their only friendly so far in 2025 also ended in a 0-0 draw against Andorra.

Home / Sports / Cyprus Seeks Redemption in Friendly with Estonia After World Cup Qualifying Woes

Cyprus Seeks Redemption in Friendly with Estonia After World Cup Qualifying Woes

16 Nov

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Summary

Cyprus missed out on 2026 World Cup after poor qualifying campaign
Estonia also struggled in World Cup qualifying, finishing last in their group
Cyprus had a relatively good year in 2025 and are favored to win the friendly

Cyprus Seeks Redemption in Friendly with Estonia After World Cup Qualifying Woes

On Tuesday, November 16th, 2025, Cyprus will welcome Estonia to the AEK Arena in Larnaca for an international friendly match. The island nation, ranked 125th in the world, is looking to put their World Cup qualifying disappointment behind them after missing out on a spot in the 2026 tournament.

Cyprus' World Cup qualifying campaign had started on a positive note, with a 2-0 victory over San Marino in their opening fixture. However, their next five games yielded only two points, despite fighting back from two-goal deficits to draw 2-2 against Romania and Bosnia. In their second match against San Marino, Akis Mantzios' side secured a 4-0 away win, but then lost 2-0 at home to Austria in their final qualifier.