Conference League: Dessers marks injury return with extra-time winner

Cyriel Dessers, the Nigerian international forward playing for Panathinaikos, scored a dramatic extra-time winner to help his team advance to the UEFA Conference League play-off round. In a tightly contested match against CSKA Sofia, Dessers struck in the 94th minute at the Vasil Levski National Stadium to seal a 2-1 victory for the Greek club. This came after a 1-1 draw in the first leg at the Olympic Stadium in Athens, giving Panathinaikos a 3-2 aggregate win and securing their spot in the next stage of the competition. The match in Sofia saw Panathinaikos take an early lead in the 66th minute when Levi Garcia converted a difficult opportunity, sending the visitors 1-0 up. However, CSKA Sofia responded in the 92nd minute as Lasha Dvali equalized, forcing the game into extra time. Just two minutes later, Dessers, who had already shown intent during the second half, capitalized on a defensive mistake by the CSKA goalkeeper to fire a right-footed shot into the bottom-left corner, sealing the win for Panathinaikos. This victory completed a remarkable turnaround for the Greek side, which had been held to a 1-1 draw by CSKA in the first leg. The tie had been evenly matched throughout, with both teams creating chances. In the initial match in Athens, Adriano Jagusic gave Panathinaikos the lead in the 21st minute by heading in a cross from Santino Andino. CSKA equalized shortly after when Georgi Rusev scored following a scramble in the penalty area. Despite several opportunities, Panathinaikos were unable to take the lead in Athens, and CSKA's strong finish saw Gasevic hit the crossbar in the 82nd minute. With the score tied at 1-1 after 90 minutes, Panathinaikos knew they needed to avoid defeat to maintain their hopes of progressing. They survived CSKA’s late equalizer before Dessers' heroics in extra time ensured their advancement. The result means Panathinaikos will now face the challenge of the Conference League play-off round, with Dessers' late goal proving pivotal in a match that stayed balanced until the final moments. Dessers' performance marked a triumphant return from injury, having missed nearly six months due to a thigh injury. He had resumed full training with Panathinaikos ahead of the 2026/27 season, and this goal signaled his readiness to contribute to the team's European campaign. His return to action came after a long period of recovery, during which he was sidelined from competitive matches. The 31-year-old last played for Panathinaikos in a 2-1 win over Volos NFC on 14 December 2025 before joining the Nigerian national team for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. Dessers joined Panathinaikos from Rangers last summer, and this decisive goal has set the tone for what could be a successful campaign for both him and the club. After months away from competitive football, the Super Eagles forward delivered a performance that not only helped his team progress but also showcased his determination to regain full fitness and form. As the club moves forward in the Conference League, Dessers' contribution will be vital in maintaining momentum and achieving further success.