Super Eagles striker Cyriel Dessers scored the winning goal for Panathinaikos in a 2-1 victory over CSKA Sofia in the UEFA Conference League on Tuesday, Soccernet.ng reports.
Prior to Tuesday, Dessers had not played a competitive match since December 2025. He was named in Nigeria coach Eric Chelle’s squad for the Africa Cup of Nations, but a thigh injury kept him from featuring in the tournament, forcing him to return to his club prematurely.
The injury ultimately required surgery, sidelining him for the remainder of the campaign. However, he resumed full training with his teammates during the pre-season, marking Tuesday’s match as his triumphant return to the pitch.
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Dessers began the match on the bench, but manager Jacob Neestrup introduced him in the 65th minute. The Nigerian marksman quickly proved to be the difference-maker. Following 1-1 stalemates in both legs of the tie — including the return leg in Bulgaria — the aggregate score was deadlocked at 2-2, pushing the match into extra time.
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In the 4th minute of extra time, Dessers scored the decisive goal to secure a 2-1 victory on the night, sending his side through to the final round of the playoffs.
Chelle on Alert: Time for Dessers to Make Super Eagles Return?
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Cyriel Dessers’ crucial goal for Panathinaikos signals that the Nigerian striker is back to full fitness and ready to make an impact this season.
Coach Eric Chelle has historically favored Dessers. If the striker maintains his form and fitness, the Franco-Malian tactician will undoubtedly be eager to recall him to the national team.
The Super Eagles return to action in September for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, facing Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau in their opening two fixtures. With several Nigerian forwards still trying to find their footing at their respective new clubs, Dessers could receive a timely national team call-up next month.
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Chelle typically employs a two-striker system, creating ample opportunities for multiple forwards to make the squad. For now, Dessers will be looking to keep scoring goals and cement his place in the starting lineup at Panathinaikos.
