The UEFA Europa League qualifying stage witnessed a historic encounter on Thursday, August 16th, 2024, as Ajax and Panathinaikos set a new record for the longest penalty shootout in a European competition. Following a 1-1 draw on aggregate (Ajax winning the first leg 1-0 in Amsterdam), the fate of the Europa League play-off spot was ultimately decided from the penalty spot.
A Tense Encounter and a Dramatic Conclusion
The initial 180 minutes of the tie saw both sides display tactical discipline and defensive solidity. Ajax, under manager Francesco Farioli, controlled possession but struggled to break down a resolute Panathinaikos defense. The Greek side, managed by Giorgos Donis, posed a threat on the counter-attack, ultimately netting an equalizer through Tete in the 89th minute of the second leg. With the score level at 1-1 on aggregate and no further goals in extra time, the outcome hinged on a penalty shootout.
A Penalty Marathon: Nerves of Steel and a Touch of Luck
The penalty shootout unfolded into a nerve-wracking spectacle. Both teams converted their first five penalties, keeping the tension at a fever pitch. As the shootout progressed, each successful conversion was met with a collective sigh of relief, while every missed penalty brought visible disappointment.
The 34th & winning penalty was a special one 🫶 pic.twitter.com/6fLLxhwwLn
— AFC Ajax (@AFCAjax) August 16, 2024
Remarkably, both goalkeepers, Ajax’s veteran Remko Pasveer and Panathinaikos’ youngster Bartlomiej Dragowski, played a pivotal role. Pasveer displayed exceptional reflexes, saving five penalties in total. Dutch striker Brian Brobbey, however, missed two penalties for Ajax, adding to the drama. In a surprising turn of events, both goalkeepers even stepped up to convert their penalties, further extending the shootout.
A Record Broken and a Place Secured
With the score locked at 12-12 after 24 penalties, the tension reached a peak. Defender Anton Gaaei stepped up for Ajax and calmly converted his penalty, securing a record-breaking 13th successful conversion for his team. Panathinaikos’ Tonny Vilhena unfortunately missed his team’s ninth penalty, handing Ajax a dramatic 13-12 victory.
A Night for History and Looking Forward
The marathon penalty shootout between Ajax and Panathinaikos will undoubtedly be etched in the annals of European football history. The encounter showcased the unpredictable nature of penalty shootouts, the mental fortitude of players under immense pressure, and the importance of a goalkeeper’s role in such situations.
For Ajax, the victory secures their place in the Europa League play-off round. They will now face Polish side Jagiellonia Bialystok for a place in the group stage. While Panathinaikos’ European campaign comes to an end, the dramatic encounter will undoubtedly provide valuable experience for their young squad. The 2024/25 Europa League qualifying stage has already delivered a remarkable moment, setting the stage for an intriguing group stage competition.
