Dessers scores first goal for Panathinaikos after summer move from Rangers

Super Eagles forward Cyriel Dessers has opened his goalscoring account for Panathinaikos following his summer move from Scottish giants Rangers.  

Dessers netted the game-winning goal for Panathinaikos in their 1-0 win over Athens Kallithea in the opening match of the League Phase of the Greek Cup. 

The 30-year-old Nigerian forward netted the decisive goal in the 30th minute, helping the Greens secure a crucial victory at the Olympiako Stadio Athinon

This was only Dessers’ second appearance for Panathinaikos, having made his debut o September 14 during a 3-2 loss to Kifisia. 

Despite the defeat in his first game, the former Rangers striker quickly demonstrated his value, displaying sharp positioning and clinical finishing to break the deadlock against Kallithea. 

The goal not only gave Panathinaikos the lead but also boosted the team’s morale amid a transitional period following the departure of manager Rui Vitoria.

In the second half, Athens Kallithea threatened to equalize, but Panathinaikos goalkeeper Lafont made key saves to preserve the lead. 

The Greens continued to press late into the game, though additional goals proved elusive, leaving Dessers’ strike as the match-winner.

Dessers joined Panathinaikos from Rangers in the summer transfer window, bringing experience from stints in Belgium, the Netherlands, and Scotland, where he has been a prolific scorer. 

The striker has expressed his commitment to helping Panathinaikos achieve team success, prioritizing collective achievements over individual accolades.

The victory provides a positive start for Panathinaikos in the Greek Cup and signals the potential impact Dessers could have in his first season with the club.

Wale Adejumo

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