3 in 3 for Cyprus BXL FC with emphatic 3-0 against France.

Cyprus BXL FC marched to their third victory in three games this season, beating France comprehensively 3-0 last night at the ISB. Nikolian's boys showed tenacity and perseverance against an opponent that started the season with high hopes and two good results against stronger teams. Anastasiades scored another two last night, bringing his tally to 6 this year, while Giorgos Leontiou scored the crucial first goal close to the end of the first half. 

The first half was a scrappy affair, physical and at times tense, with France exerting a lot of pressure in the middle of the field, as Cyprus BXL FC was trying to impose itself on the game. The Cypriots had most of possession and were systematically pushing play into their attacking half, but their opponents defended stoutly and prevented dangers early. France created no chances in the first period as the Cyprus defence and midfield performed to perfection, while at the other end of the pitch questions were beginning to be asked in and around the French box.

The first goal came from a free-kick taken by Papoutsas from the edge of the box on the left wing. The French keeper saved the ball but failed to hold on to it, giving the chance to Anastasiou and Leontiou to pounce. The latter had an easy job pushing the ball into the net, a fair conclusion to the first half.

The second half started badly, with an injury of the French keeper as he jumped to clear a Cyprus corner. Shortly after the substitution, Anastasiades scored his first with a beautifully measured long-range lob. The score was 2-0 and Cyprus BXL FC was looking comfortable.

Minutes later, Anastasiades ambushed the floundering French centre-backs, stealing the ball and running through on goal, finishing clinically and getting the third for the Cypriots.

For the rest of the game, Cyprus BXL FC continued to play Their Game with confidence and commitment, creating more scoring opportunities while not allowing the French any breathing space in attack. Gogakis made a fantastic save the only time that France actually became dangerous with a powerful shot from inside the box.

Anastasiades was by far the man of the match with his two goals, but closely followed by Georgakoudis with his huge performance on the right wing, and the Papoutsas-Anastasiou duo in defensive midfield. Dellopoulos was also once again excellent in his defensive duties.

It was a thoroughly gratifying night for the Cypriots. Having won easily two games against relatively weaker sides, France was the first real test of character and ability. In the event, they rose to the challenge, showing patience, getting stuck in whenever the dynamics of the game demanded it, and striking with remarkable accuracy in the few chances they got. This is one of their best season starts, sporting not only 3-in-3 wins but also a remarkable 13-1 goal difference.

The challenge for them will now be to maintain momentum, while tempering enthusiasm with poise, and passion with long-term and calculated ambition.

The next game for Cyprus BXL FC is next Thursday October 27 against Finland at the ISB.