Cyprus produced an encouraging performance against Serbia on Wednesday despite failing to convert their chances in a 0-0 draw in Larnaca.
Nicos Nioplias’ new look side – which featured a debut by Anagennises goalkeeper Christos Mastrou – enjoyed most of the chances at the GSZ Stadium but were undone by some stout Serbian defending and wasteful finishing by Nestor Mytides.
It was the Serbian visitors who had the first chance with Ajax striker Miralem Sulejmani forcing Mastrou into a good save.
Cyprus responded moments later but Mytides wasted a decent opportunity to score when he should have shot at goal instead of trying to lay a pass to Constantinos Charalambides.
Sulejmani was again the danger man in the final chance of the half but he blasted over the bar when put through with only Mastrou to beat.
Nioplias’ side enjoyed the majority of the chances in the second half with Mytides firing wide when found by George Efrem’s cross and the AEK forward was replaced on the hour by Omonia striker Demetris Christofi.
Christofi – who scored in Cyprus’ last game against Scotland – missed two good scoring opportunities late on especially with two minutes remaining when he rounded goalkeeper Vladimir Stojkovic but Udinese defender Dusan Basta was on hand to clear off the line.
Cyprus Weekly