Ajax edged past Panathinaikos 13-12 in an epic penalty shootout, featuring a staggering 34 spot-kicks, to secure their spot in the Europa League qualifying play-off round.
Veteran goalkeeper Remko Pasveer, at 40, was the hero of the night, saving five penalties and even scoring one himself. The winning penalty was slotted home by defender Anton Gaaei, sealing the dramatic win for Ajax.
Despite the victory, it wasn’t all smooth sailing. Netherlands striker Brian Brobbey missed two penalties, and Bertrand Traore and Youri Baas also failed to convert their chances.
Ajax's manager, Francesco Farioli, described the 25-minute shootout as "incredible." Speaking to Ziggo Sport, he praised his team’s determination: "The spirit and dedication of the team were amazing tonight. We are not perfect, but no one can say the players didn’t give it their all."
This shootout now stands as the second-highest scoring in European competition history, just behind Glentoran's 14-13 loss to Gzira United in Conference League qualifying last season.
The match went to penalties after Panathinaikos won 1-0 in Amsterdam, leveling the tie 1-1 on aggregate. Tete’s 89th-minute goal forced extra time, but neither side could break the deadlock.
Farioli acknowledged the challenge of heading into such a lengthy shootout after a grueling game: "It may have taken a little longer, but we've taken another important step."
Ajax will now face Polish side Jagiellonia Bialystok in a two-legged play-off later this month as they aim to reach the league phase.
