Cyriel Dessers Strikes in Extra Time as Panathinaikos Secure UEFA Conference League Play-Off Spot

Nigerian international Cyriel Dessers scored an extra-time winner to propel Panathinaikos into the play-off round of the UEFA Conference League with a 2-1 victory over Bulgarian side CSKA 1948 in Sofia.

Dessers delivered the decisive strike in the 94th minute at the Vasil Levski National Stadium, restoring the lead for the Greek club just two minutes after Lasha Dvali had equalized for the hosts. The victory sealed a 3-2 aggregate win for Panathinaikos following a 1-1 draw in the first leg in Athens.

The visitors took the lead in the 66th minute when Levi Garcia finished from a tight angle. CSKA 1948 responded late when Dvali scored in the 92nd minute to push the match into extra time, but Dessers quickly turned the tide, converting a right-footed shot inside the penalty box to secure the result.

The dramatic win concludes a competitive two-legged tie that remained level until the opening minutes of extra time. Dessers’ match-winner marks a notable return to form for the striker, who recently returned to full training after recovering from a long-term thigh injury, securing Panathinaikos’ advancement into the next phase of European competition.