UEL: Panathinaikos Falls to Go Ahead Eagles in UEFA Europa League

Go Ahead Eagles celebrate their dramatic 2-1 victory

Go Ahead Eagles secure a stunning 2-1 win over Panathinaikos in the UEFA Europa League, thanks to Milan Smit's match-winning performance.

Milan Smit scored two goals in the second half, first equalizing with a tap-in from Dean James' cross and then scoring the winner with another precise finish...

Milan Smit was the hero for Go Ahead Eagles as they came from behind to defeat Panathinaikos 2-1 in Athens, securing their first-ever main draw win in European competition. Smit scored both of Go Ahead Eagles' goals in the second half, turning the tide of the match after Panathinaikos had taken the lead through Karol Swiderski's goal from a corner kick.

Tete posed a threat to the goal within the first 15 minutes, prompting Jari De Busser to make a reaction save after Adam Gnezda Cerin's blocked shot deflected the ball into his path.

De Busser made two more crucial saves before halftime, first tipping over Cerin's header and then clawing away Tete's curling shot in stoppage time.

However, De Busser couldn't prevent Karol Swiderski from heading the hosts into a well-deserved lead early in the second half. The Poland international outmuscled his marker to steer Tete's near-post corner into the net, scoring in consecutive UEFA Europa League matches.

After falling behind, Go Ahead Eagles were forced to take more risks, with Richonell Margaret's driven shot testing Alban Lafont, who made a crucial save. Despite this, Panathinaikos still seemed to be in control of the match and threatened to extend their lead when Filip Duricic's side-footed strike was saved by Jari De Busser.

That save proved pivotal, as just moments later, Go Ahead Eagles launched a counter-attack that resulted in the equalizing goal. Dean James delivered a low cross that Milan Smit cleverly flicked towards the goal, Lafont managed to touch the ball but couldn't prevent it from crossing the line, leveling the score unexpectedly against the run of play.

Go Ahead Eagles get their first win in Europe 👏#UEL pic.twitter.com/BCEQwpkwH1

— UEFA Europa League (@EuropaLeague) October 2, 2025

Dean James and Milan Smit once again showcased their chemistry on the field, combining sensationally in the 82nd minute to secure a thrilling win for Go Ahead Eagles. Smit slid home the winner, leaving Panathinaikos stunned after dominating most of the match.

Melvin Boel's team celebrated a famous victory, while Panathinaikos were left to ponder their first home defeat of the season. Despite controlling the game for the most part, Panathinaikos couldn't hold on for a draw, ultimately falling to Go Ahead Eagles' decisive attack.

Key Highlights of the Match:

Persistent Pressure: Panathinaikos dominated the first half, with goalkeeper Jari de Busser making several crucial saves to keep the score at 1-0.

Smit's Match-Winning Performance: Milan Smit scored two goals in the second half, first equalizing with a tap-in from Dean James' cross and then scoring the winner with another precise finish

Go Ahead Eagles' Resilience: Despite being under pressure for most of the match, Go Ahead Eagles showed great resilience and determination to secure a stunning victory.

Impact of the Win

This victory is a significant boost for Go Ahead Eagles, who are looking to make their mark in the UEFA Europa League. The win demonstrates the team's ability to compete against stronger opponents and could serve as a confidence booster for the rest of the season.