Super Eagles forward Peter Olayinka has described his first goal for APOEL Nicosia as a special and memorable moment after firing the winner in a tense 1-0 victory over arch-rivals Omonia Nicosia in the Cypriot top-flight.
Olayinka made an instant impact in the heated Nicosia derby, scoring in the 81st minute just 10 minutes after being introduced from the bench. His decisive strike sealed all three points for APOEL and handed the club local bragging rights in one of Cyprus’ fiercest football rivalries.
The goal was Olayinka’s first since joining APOEL during the winter transfer window and came in only his second appearance for the club. It also ended a personal drought, marking his first goal since October 2025, when he scored for Red Star Belgrade in a 3-0 league win over Napredak.
“My first goal for APOEL FC, especially in a key match, is a moment I truly cherish,” Olayinka said. “As a new addition to the squad, making an early contribution was important to me. I’m thankful for the support around the club and excited for what lies ahead.”
Beyond the emotional significance, the derby win carries major implications for APOEL’s 2025/26 Cypriot league campaign. The result moves them above Aris Limassol into fifth place on the table, boosting their push for a stronger finish this season.
The 30-year-old signed a deal until May 2026 after leaving Red Star on a free transfer. Known for his successful stint at Slavia Prague, where he became the club’s highest-scoring foreign player in European competitions, Olayinka brings vast experience to APOEL.
With over 100 career goals and more than 60 assists in 364 appearances, his latest strike could signal the start of another prolific chapter.
