Panathinaikos: Kings Kangwa and Cyriel Dessers shine in win over Kairat Almaty

22.10.26 FT Europa Conference League

Kairat Almaty

1

:

Panathinaikos

5

Panathinaikos dominated Kairat Almaty (5-1) on Thursday in the second round of the Conference League league phase. Cyriel Dessers scored twice, while Kings Kangwa made his mark with a superb free kick just seconds after coming on.

Cyriel Dessers and Kings Kangwa contributed to Panathinaikos' attacking display in Kazakhstan. The Nigerian striker scored twice, while the Zambian midfielder netted the Greek side's fourth goal with a spectacular free kick in a match largely dominated by the visitors.

Cyriel Dessers continues his fine run

After a first half in which a Panathinaikos goal was disallowed by VAR, Dessers struck quickly after the break. In the 47th minute, the Nigerian centre-forward took advantage of a pass from Andreas Tetteh to beat the goalkeeper with a precise shot into the top-left corner and make it 3-0.

This brace takes his tally to three goals in the competition this season after the opening two rounds. Dessers has returned to a competition he knows well: with Feyenoord, in the 2021-22 edition, he scored ten goals in thirteen appearances and helped the Dutch club reach the final.

Kings Kangwa strikes immediately after coming on

The highlight of the match came ten minutes after Dessers' goal. Introduced in the 56th minute, Kings Kangwa needed just one minute to make an impact. From a direct free kick, the Zambia international sent the ball into the top-left corner, leaving the Kairat Almaty goalkeeper with no chance.

This goal takes his tally to two in the league phase, having already scored on the opening matchday. Having joined Panathinaikos in the summer from Israeli football, the midfielder once again proved decisive in this European campaign.

Panathinaikos eventually won 5-1 and confirmed their attacking efficiency. Dessers made the difference with his finishing instinct, while Kangwa made an immediate impression with an appearance that was instantly rewarded.

Nouya M'toama

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Versatile journalist specializing in sports and political news, with extensive experience across radio, print and digital media platforms.

Related teams and leagues

Kairat Almaty

Panathinaikos

Europa Conference League