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Ajax will now face Polish team Jagiellonia Bialystok in a crucial two-legged playoff later this month, following their record-breaking victory in the penalty shootout.
Ajax Amsterdam and Panathinaikos etched their names into European football history books with an astonishing 13-12 score line on Penalties.
The shootout, which stretched to a record-breaking 34 spot-kicks, was the longest and most intense in European competition history, surpassing the previous record set by Glentoran’s 14-13 defeat by Gzira United in the Conference League qualifying last season.
A night of unforgettable drama
The clash between Ajax and Panathinaikos, held as part of the Europa League qualifying play-offs, was a test of nerves, skill, and perseverance.
After a 1-0 victory for Panathinaikos in Amsterdam—thanks to a late goal by Tete in the 89th minute—the tie was level at 1-1, setting the stage for a tense penalty shootout.
The match, marked by an extraordinary shootout that lasted 25 minutes, saw Ajax’s goalkeeper Remko Pasveer, at 40 years old, playing a pivotal role.
Not only did Pasveer save five penalties, but he also made history by converting one of Ajax's penalties himself. His remarkable performance was crucial in ensuring Ajax's progression to the next round.
The shootout
The shootout was a true test of endurance. Ajax's defender Anton Gaaei stepped up to score the decisive penalty, sealing the win in an extraordinary contest of nerves and skill.
Despite notable misses from key players such as Netherlands striker Brian Brobbey, who failed to convert two penalties, and Bertrand Traore and Youri Baas, who also missed, Ajax's collective spirit proved too strong for their Greek opponents.
Manager Francesco Farioli was effusive in his praise for his team, describing the shootout as "incredible" and reflecting on the immense effort of his players. “The spirit and dedication of the team were amazing tonight,” Farioli told Ziggo Sport. “We are not perfect, but we can't say that the players didn't give it their all.”
Ajax vs Panathinaikos' shootout beats Glentoran vs Gzira United's shootout
The previous record for the longest penalty shootout in European competition was set during the 2023-24 Conference League qualifying round.
Glentoran faced Gzira United in a shootout that ended with a score of 14-13 in favor of Gzira United.
That shootout, while also extraordinary, was shorter in duration and involved fewer penalties than Ajax's marathon encounter.
Ajax’s victory means they advance to a two-legged play-off against Polish side Jagiellonia Bialystok later this month. The Dutch giants will be eager to build on this remarkable achievement as they aim to reach the group stage of the Europa League.
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