PSV Eindhoven twice came from behind to beat Panathinaikos 3-2 in Greece and strengthen their chances of progressing from the Europa League group stages.
- By Michael Bell
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Memphis Depay nearly gave the Eredivisie leaders the lead in the first minute, but his free kick went just over the bar, and ten minutes later goalkeeper Luke Steele had to deny the winger with a smart save using his feet. Straight from Depay’s chance Panathinaikos broke up the pitch, and Zeca’s cross to the back post was fired past Jeroen Zoet by Abdul Ajagun.
Just before the half hour mark PSV were level with Georginio Wijnaldum’s through ball reaching Depay, who slotted past Steele with a composed finish. PSV put pressure on the hosts, but Panathinaikos once again took the lead before half time as Mladen Petric volleyed in from 12 yards after Nikolaos Karelis headed into his path.
With 25 minutes to go PSV once again drew level through Luuk de Jong’s close range finish after Jetro Willems played a good ball into the box. Then on 78 minutes Georginio Wijnaldum headed in the winner from Willems corner kick.
Panathinaikos were unable to find a way back into the match, and PSV held on for the win. PSV now sit 2nd with seven points, five points behind the already qualified Dinamo Moscow.
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