Zambia midfielder Kings Kangwa made an immediate impact off the bench, scoring a stunning free-kick just one minute after coming on as Panathinaikos cruised to a convincing 5-1 victory over Kairat Almaty in the UEFA Conference League.
Kangwa replaced Etienne Camara in the 56th minute and wasted little time announcing his arrival, curling a superb free-kick into the net in the 57th minute to extend Panathinaikos’ advantage to 4-0. The goal took the Zambian international’s tally to two goals in two UEFA Conference League appearances, underlining his growing contribution to the Greek side’s European campaign.
Panathinaikos made a strong start to their first European visit to Kazakhstan, taking the lead in the sixth minute when Tamborda finished Kyriakopoulos’ cross from the left. The visitors doubled their advantage in the 24th minute after Deschers converted a penalty, having been brought down inside the area.
The Greek side continued their dominance after the break, with Tettei setting up Deschers to score his second of the night in the 47th minute and make it 3-0. Kangwa then took centre stage with his spectacular set-piece finish, further extending the visitors’ commanding lead.
Rastodor added a fifth goal in the 75th minute after being set up by Tettei, while Kairat managed a consolation through Bekbolat four minutes later. Panathinaikos threatened to add to their tally in the closing stages, with Pelistri striking the post as the visitors completed an emphatic performance.
The victory marked Panathinaikos’ second win in the Conference League league phase and followed another five-goal display against Asteras, highlighting the team’s attacking form.
For Kangwa, the latest goal represents another positive step in his European campaign. Scoring within a minute of entering the match demonstrated his ability to make an immediate impact, while two goals in two Conference League appearances give the Zambian midfielder further momentum as Panathinaikos continue their continental campaign.
