Ajax Edge Panathinaikos 13-12 in Marathon Shootout to Reach Europa League Play-Offs

 

Ajax Edge Panathinaikos 13-12 in Marathon Shootout to Reach Europa League Play-Offs

In one of the most extraordinary penalty shootouts in European competition history, Ajax triumphed over Panathinaikos 13-12 after an epic spot-kick marathon, securing their place in the Europa League qualifying play-off round.

The nerve-shredding shootout saw an incredible 34 penalties taken, with veteran goalkeeper Remko Pasveer, 40, emerging as Ajax’s unlikely hero. Pasveer not only saved five penalties but also scored one himself, while defender Anton Gaaei slotted home the decisive spot-kick for the Dutch giants.

Despite their eventual victory, it was far from straightforward for Ajax. Netherlands striker Brian Brobbey suffered the agony of missing two penalties during the shootout, with teammates Bertrand Traore and Youri Baas also failing to convert. Yet, Pasveer’s heroics, coupled with Gaaei’s composure, saw Ajax edge out their resilient Greek opponents in a dramatic climax to the tie.

Manager Francesco Farioli praised his team’s resolve, describing the shootout as “incredible.” Reflecting on the match, he told Ziggo Sport, “The spirit and dedication of the team were amazing tonight. We are not perfect, but we can’t say that the players didn’t give it their all.”

The shootout, lasting 25 tension-filled minutes, became the second-longest in European competition history, just behind last season’s Conference League qualifier where Glentoran lost 14-13 to Gzira United. The drama was set in motion after a late twist in regular time, with Panathinaikos leveling the tie at 1-1 on aggregate through Tete’s 89th-minute strike in Amsterdam, forcing extra time and ultimately penalties.

Farioli acknowledged the mental challenge of heading into such a lengthy shootout. “It’s difficult to go into a penalty shootout after a game like that. It may have taken a little longer, but we’ve taken another important step.”

With this gritty win, Ajax now advance to a two-legged play-off against Polish side Jagiellonia Bialystok later this month, as they aim to secure a spot in the Europa League’s group stage. After a chaotic night filled with tension and drama, Ajax will be hoping for a smoother path ahead as they look to make their mark in European competition this season.