Cyriel Dessers makes Super Eagles statement with late Panathinaikos heroics – “A special phase”

Super Eagles striker Cyriel Dessers made a timely statement in his bid to remain in the Super Eagles picture after scoring twice to fire Panathinaikos into the UEFA Conference League league phase, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 31-year-old came off the bench on the hour mark and delivered when his team needed him most, scoring in the 72nd minute before converting a dramatic 125th-minute penalty to secure a 2-1 victory over Hradec Kralove.

Dessers’ second goal came with the tie heading towards a penalty shootout, as the 31-year-old kept his composure from the spot to complete his brace and send Panathinaikos through 4-3 on aggregate.

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The result was huge, considering how the first leg had unfolded. Panathinaikos had surrendered a two-goal advantage in Athens to draw 2-2, leaving the Greek side needing to qualify in difficult circumstances.

Dessers, however, changed the game after entering in the second half. His first goal arrived with a header in the 72nd minute, giving Panathinaikos the lead after Vicente Taborda picked him out.

Hradec Kralove levelled through Vladimir Darida in stoppage time, forcing the match into extra time, but Dessers had the final say when Panathinaikos were awarded a late penalty.

Cyriel Dessers makes his intentions clear

The former Rangers striker was elated with his contribution after the match, particularly because his goals helped Panathinaikos secure European football.

“I am very happy that my first goals gave us qualification,” the 11-cap Super Eagles striker said in quotes revealed by Sportal, explaining how important…