Panathinaikos will face either FC Midtjylland or Real Betis in the UEFA Europa League (UEL) Last 16 following a tense penalty shootout win over Viktoria Plzen. The tie ended 3-3 on aggregate after a 1-1 draw in the Czech Republic.
Andrews Tetteh struck early, just nine minutes in, linking up with Vicente Taborda before slotting the ball low into the bottom corner to give Panathinaikos the lead.
Viktoria Plzen gradually regained composure, creating their first notable chance in the 21st minute when Lukas Cerv nodded down for Salim Lawal, who fired just over.
Despite continued pressure from Tomas Ladra, Amar Memic, and Cerv, Alban Lafont in the Greek goal remained untroubled.
Tetteh nearly settled the tie before halftime, breaking behind the defence and going down under a challenge from Vaclav Jemelka, but his penalty appeal was denied.
After the break, Viktoria’s persistent attacks paid off just after the hour mark. Ladra’s long-range effort forced a smart save from Lafont, and from the resulting corner, Patrik Hrosovsky delivered a precise ball for Karel Spacil to head home the equaliser.
Panathinaikos nearly regained the advantage as Tetteh set up Renato Sanches and Ladra had a dipping effort, but neither could find the target, sending the match towards extra time.
In the added 30 minutes, Tetteh continued to be the focal point of Panathinaikos’ attacks, but his header early in extra time went wide.
The game took a dramatic turn when Panathinaikos substitute Prince Abu was pushed over by Javi Hernandez, earning a straight red card.
Despite being a man down, Viktoria failed to capitalize. Sampson Dweh made a crucial block to deny Facundo Pellistri, while Filip Djuricic’s late header was straight at Florian Wiegele, pushing the contest to penalties.
In the shootout, Lafont immediately gave Panathinaikos the edge by saving Memic’s attempt, though Davide Calabria squandered the next chance.
After four successful penalties each, Cheick Souare’s effort sailed over, and Panathinaikos held their nerve.
Karol Swiderski and Matej Valenta converted their kicks, while Milos Pantovic scored the decisive final penalty, sending the Greek side through.
Panathinaikos, European Cup finalists in 1971, are now just one round away from matching their best-ever UEL run, while Viktoria Plzen exit the competition without losing in normal or extra time.
