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Samsunspor will meet Panathinaikos in the UEFA Europa League play-off round after the Greek club eliminated Shakhtar Donetsk 5-4 in a penalty shootout following a goalless draw in regulation and extra time at Miejski Stadium on Wednesday.
The Ukrainian side, managed by Turkish coach Arda Turan, was unable to find a breakthrough against Panathinaikos’ organized defense. Both teams failed to score over 120 minutes, sending the match to penalties where Panathinaikos demonstrated composure and precision to secure the victory.
The match was marked by multiple disciplinary incidents. In the 82nd minute, Shakhtar midfielder Oleh Ocheretko received a red card. Moments later, Turan was also dismissed following protests to the referee, prompting tense scenes on the sidelines. Video footage showed Turan confronting the fourth official, with Shakhtar staff struggling to calm the young coach.
Panathinaikos converted all five of their penalties, while Shakhtar missed one, sealing their elimination and opening the path for Samsunspor to face the Greek side in the upcoming play-off fixtures, scheduled for August 21 and 28.
The tie began with a 0-0 draw in the first leg, leaving both sides evenly matched heading into the return leg. Shakhtar’s defensive resilience was evident, but Panathinaikos’ composure under pressure allowed them to prevail in the shootout.
Samsunspor now prepares to confront a team that demonstrated both tactical discipline and mental strength in high-pressure moments.
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