Panathinaikos wins in extra time to reach Conference League group stage

Panathinaikos battled through a grueling match, enduring pressure from Hradec Králové and requiring extra time to secure a 2-1 victory in the Czech Republic, thus advancing to the Conference League group stage. The standout performer was Cyril Dessers, who came on as a substitute and scored both goals for the "Greens," with the decisive second strike coming from the penalty spot in the 125th minute.

The Czech hosts started stronger, nearly scoring in the third minute, but goalkeeper Bartłomiej Drągowski made crucial saves to keep Panathinaikos in the game during a difficult opening. The Greek side gradually found their footing, with claims for a penalty and a significant missed opportunity by Livi Garcia before halftime.

In the second half, Panathinaikos improved, threatening through Kontouris and Antino before finally breaking the deadlock in the 72nd minute. A free-kick from Tamborda found Dessers, who headed home to give his team a 1-0 lead. Panathinaikos had chances to extend their lead, but Hradec Králové's goalkeeper, Jan Zachradník, made key saves, and a triple chance involving Garcia and Dessers went begging.

Failing to capitalize on their opportunities proved costly for Panathinaikos. In the 92nd minute, a lapse in defense allowed an unmarked Darida to equalize with a close-range shot, sending the match into extra time. The added periods were tense, with Drągowski again making vital saves and Hradec Králové missing a double chance late on.

The breakthrough finally came in the dying moments when a Hradec Králové defender fouled Dessers in the penalty area. After a VAR review, a penalty was awarded, which Dessers calmly converted in the 125th minute, securing a dramatic qualification for Panathinaikos.

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He came on as a substitute, scored both goals for the "Greens," with the second coming from the penalty spot in the 125th minute.