Brave Botev lost to Panathinaikos 1:2 in the first match between the two teams in the second qualifying round of the UEFA Europa League. The “Canaries” played a strong match, pressing the Greek giant and showing that their chances remain in the return match in Plovdiv.
Alexander Yeremeyef gave Panathinaikos the lead in the 8th minute after a defensive error by Botev. The early shock took its toll on the Yellow-Blacks, with Matvei Igonen having to intervene decisively on several occasions to prevent a second own goal.
Botev still had his chances, with Ivelin Popov and Antoine Conte trying to restore parity. 10′ before the end of the first half, the “Canaries” had serious reasons to ask for a penalty for a foul against Samuel Akere, but the referee never pointed to the penalty spot.
However, at the end of the first half, Panathinaikos led 2:0. Anastasios Bakasetas managed to score before the break.
A very strong second half from Dusan Kerkez’s boys and accurate substitutions by the coach brought Botev back into the match. Alen Korošec, who appeared from the bench, scored just a minute after his appearance in the game. For the Slovenian, it was also his debut goal in the yellow-black shirt.
Until the end of the meeting, Botev continued to pressure his famous rival. Although they did not reach an equalizing goal, Dusan Kerkez’s alumni showed that they still have a chance at the rematch in Plovdiv on August 1. In the stands of the Olympic Stadium in Athens, Botev was also supported by more than 150 supporters of the “canaries”.
The winner of the pair Botev – Panathinaikos will meet one of Ajax – Vojvodina in the third qualifying round of the Europa League. The loser of the clash in Plovdiv will continue to the third round of the Conference League, where the opponent will be someone from HŠK Zrinjski Mostar or NK Bravo.
