Nigeria international, Cyriel Dessers scored in the latest Derby of the Eternal Enemies over Olympiacos.
Dessers put Panathinaikos ahead in the first half, and the goal looked like it was going to be the winner until Ayoub El Kaabi scored to rescue Olympiacos from the jaws of defeat.
The derby lived up to its name, the match was close statistically. Panathinaikos had 47% possession, six shots, with two on target, 300 passes, and 16 fouls committed, which highlights the physicality of the game.
While Olympiacos had 53% possession, nine total shots, three shots on target, 353 passes, and committed 18 fouls.
Dessers was the best player on the pitch for Panathinaikos, aside from his goal he also excelled all around.
He completed 71% of his passes, creating one chance, and completed 60% of his dribbles.
Defensively he had two clearances and three ball recoveries. The Super Eagles forward had one ground clearance and also excelled in the air, having three clearances.
After the match, Panathinaikos head coach Christos Kontis praised Dessers for his performance:
“Cyriel is an important player for us, and tonight he showed his quality not just with the goal, but in his all-around play.
“His ability to work for the team and contribute defensively is invaluable. We are pleased with his progress this season.”
Meanwhile, Olympiacos head coach José Luis Mendilibar had mixed feelings about the game:
“We didn’t start the game well, but we managed to get back into it. Panathinaikos defended very well, but I am proud of my team for showing resilience.
“El Kaabi’s goal was vital, but we must work on our consistency moving forward.”
Dessers’ compatriot, Bruno Onyemaechi, didn’t play, despite being fit. Bruno has struggled with game time at Olympiacos this season, playing only nine minutes.
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Mendilibar was asked about Onyemaechi’s lack of minutes, he said:
“Bruno is a player we value, but right now, the competition in our squad is intense, especially in his position.
“It’s not always easy to fit everyone into the starting lineup, and some decisions are made based on the opponent and the tactical needs of the game.
“Bruno has to keep working hard, and when his moment comes, he needs to be ready. I have no doubts about his quality, but at the moment, there are other players in the mix. He’s been training well, and we’re confident he will get more opportunities as the season progresses.”
Olympiacos remain top of the table with ten points level on point with AEK Athens and PAOK. On the contrary Panathinaikos are second bottom with two points from three game.
