Ajax Advances to Europa League Play-Offs After Epic Penalty Shootout
Ajax Amsterdam’s journey in the Europa League qualifiers has been a rollercoaster, culminating in a nail-biting penalty shootout victory over Panathinaikos.
A Rough Start and a Resurgent Ajax
The match started shakily for Ajax, but they gradually asserted their dominance, testing the opposition’s goalkeeper repeatedly. Striker Chuba Akpom came close on several occasions, but his efforts were met by the formidable Bartlomiej Dragowski.
A Late Setback and Penalty Drama
As the game neared its end, disaster struck for Ajax. In a moment of chaos within their penalty area, Tetê of Panathinaikos managed to poke the ball past Remko Pasveer. This late equalizer forced the match into extra time and ultimately a penalty shootout.
Pasveer’s Heroics and a Record-Breaking Shootout
The penalty shootout became a marathon, stretching to 34 attempts. Ajax goalkeeper Remko Pasveer emerged as the hero, saving an astonishing five penalties. Anton Gaaei ultimately slotted home the winning penalty, sending Ajax through with a 13-12 victory.
The result was particularly remarkable as Ajax had to overcome missed penalties from Bertrand Traoré and Brian Brobbey. Pasveer’s heroics, however, ensured that Ajax’s Europa League journey would continue.
Ajax will now face Polish champions Jagiellonia Bialystok in the play-off round, where they will aim to secure a berth in the group stage.
