Rastoder’s 85th‑minute strike sends Panathinaikos into Conference League third round
North Macedonia international Elmin Rastoder scored in the 85th minute to level the tie 2-2 and send Panathinaikos through to the third qualifying round.
Elmin Rastoder scored in the 85th minute to send Panathinaikos into the third qualifying round of the UEFA Conference League after a dramatic 2-2 home draw with Hungarian side Paks on July 30, 2026.
Late equaliser seals progression
Having won the first leg 2-1, Panathinaikos needed to withstand a fightback in the return match. Paks took the lead twice on Greek soil, but Rastoder’s finish restored parity and ensured the Greens advanced on aggregate.
The goal was Rastoder’s first for Panathinaikos since joining the club and arrived at a crucial moment of the tie, when the visitors had looked capable of overturning the first-leg deficit.
Social media reacted immediately to the strike; one post celebrated, “Rastoder has come to save Panathinaikos!!! ☘️”. The clip of the goal circulated widely among supporters after the whistle.
For the North Macedonia international it is an important milestone in a season that now continues with European football, while Panathinaikos prepare for the next qualifying round of the Conference League.
Photo: press material from the event
