APOEL became the first Cypriot team to reach the Champions League quarter-finals on Wednesday when they beat French favourites Lyon 4-3 on penalties after their last 16 tie was level 1-1 on aggregate after extra time. Goalkeeper Dionisis Chiotis was the hero of the night after saving penalties from Alexandre Lacazette and Michel Bastos; APOEL didn't miss one.
Although the Cypriots rode their luck at times this was not an undeserved win as they took the game to Lyon. Ever since the draw for the last 16 was made, APOEL were hopeful the tie would be decided at home and the fixture was set up perfectly with the Cypriots only trailing 1-0 from the first leg from a Lacazette strike. With victory, APOEL continue their magical adventure after punching above their weight against more illustrious sides such as Porto, Zenit St Petersburg and now Lyon. In terms of budget and status, APOEL are the smallest club left in the competition. APOEL are the most decorated team in Cypriot football. A founder member of the Cyprus Football Association, they were formed in a sweet shop 85 years ago.
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