Despite remaining undefeated in regulation time throughout the current Europa League season, Viktoria Plzeň has been eliminated from the competition. The team advanced to the playoff round before ultimately falling to Panathinaikos in a penalty shootout, securing the Greek club’s place among the final sixteen teams. Here’s a look at what the closely contested tie revealed.
A Frustrating Undefeated Streak
Viktoria Plzeň stands as the sole team in this year’s Europa League to complete the tournament without a single loss in regulation play. In their home match against Panathinaikos, they were forced to come from behind, but the game ultimately ended in a 1-1 draw. This result gives the Czech team a record of three wins and seven draws in the second-tier European competition. It’s a significant disappointment to exit the knockout stage so early despite such a strong record. This outcome highlights the unpredictable nature of tournament play, where consistent performance doesn’t always guarantee advancement.
Tetteh’s Impact
The forward scored twice in the first leg in Athens and needed less than ten minutes to find the net in Plzeň. Andrews Tetteh has been in excellent form since joining Panathinaikos and continued to demonstrate that in the Štruncovy sady stadium. While appearing more labored in the return leg of the Europa League playoff round, he still delivered for his team, sending a precise shot to the back of the net to give the Greek side the lead.
Spáčil’s Redemption
The first match in Athens didn’t go well for Karel Spáčil. He was tasked with marking the imposing Tetteh and was involved in both goals conceded. In the home fixture, he redeemed himself. He fulfilled his defensive duties and also contributed going forward, heading in a corner kick to equalize in the 62nd minute. However, he was unable to finish the match due to injury.
Injury Concerns
The match against Panathinaikos saw both defenders Karel Spáčil and Václav Jemelka forced off with knee injuries, leaving Plzeň severely short on central defenders. Sampson Dweh, Alexandr Sojka, and Cheick Souaré finished the match in central defense, highlighting the team’s limited options. Fortunately, Plzeň can utilize winter signings David Krčík and Adam Kadlec in league play. The injuries underscore the importance of squad depth in maintaining competitive performance throughout a season.
European Coefficient Implications
Even before the January draw, it was clear that the tie against Panathinaikos would have implications beyond just reaching the round of sixteen. The Czech league currently holds tenth place in the European competition rankings, guaranteeing direct entry for the league champion into the Champions League group stage. However, Greece is close behind in eleventh place, posing a threat. Panathinaikos’s progression past Viktoria Plzeň has brought the southeastern European teams closer, but Sparta Prague and Olomouc still have the opportunity to influence the outcome in the coming rounds. The final standings will determine the number of Champions League and Europa League spots allocated to each nation.
