Djurgården Secures First Conference League Win

Djurgården celebrated their first Conference League win this season, defeating Panathinaikos 2-1 in a match full of VAR suspense.

The game saw Djurgården overturn a 0-1 first-half deficit, with second-half goals from Tobias Gulliksen and Deniz Hümmet, the latter’s goal awarded after a lengthy VAR review.

The Swedish team entered the match amid a challenging stretch, having previously drawn with Austria’s LASK Linz and lost to Portugal’s Vitoria. However, the team rallied at home in front of their supporters, who voiced their opposition to VAR before kick-off but ultimately celebrated the technology that helped secure their victory.

The Greek visitors opened the scoring in the 17th minute through Filip Djuricic. Djurgården goalkeeper Oscar Jansson couldn’t stop Djuricic’s skilful finish, which saw Panathinaikos take a 1-0 lead. Despite efforts to build momentum, Djurgården went into the half-time break without an equaliser.

The Blue Stripes emerged with renewed energy in the second half. Within minutes, Besard Sabovic lofted a well-timed chip to Tobias Gulliksen, who calmly equalised with a deft finish, igniting the home crowd. Djurgården pressed hard for the lead, creating several opportunities as they continued to dominate possession.

The breakthrough came in the 72nd minute, courtesy of Deniz Hümmet. After a solo effort from Tokmac Nguen, Hümmet found himself in a promising position and slotted the ball past the goalkeeper. Initially flagged offside, the goal was reviewed by VAR, and after a tense wait, it was deemed valid, handing Djurgården a crucial 2-1 advantage.

Elvan! 📸 pic.twitter.com/K6XWSdHNDU

— Djurgården Fotboll (@DIF_Fotboll) November 7, 2024

Securing a Milestone Victory

Despite late pressure from Panathinaikos, Djurgården held firm to clinch the 2-1 win, marking a significant victory in their Conference League campaign. The victory also brought financial rewards, with Djurgården securing at least SEK 4.4 million in UEFA prize money.

Head coach Roberth Björknesjö expressed his delight post-match, praising his players and the fans for their commitment. “It was a magical match,” he said. “The boys gave everything, supporting each other and following the game plan perfectly. This win brings much-needed energy for the rest of the season.”

Gulliksen’s Standout Performance

Tobias Gulliksen, one of the match’s goal-scorers, called it “one of the best performances” he has experienced with Djurgården. Recently moved from the wing to a central attacking position by Björknesjö, Gulliksen reflected on his increased involvement and comfort in this role, noting, “I told Djurgården when I came here that it is where I feel I am the best. It gives me more freedom in attack, and our combinations fit better now.”

Vilken stämning! Vilken vändning!

Tack för ikväll Djurgårdsfamiljen 💛❤️💙 pic.twitter.com/xdLsJOKGES

— Djurgården Fotboll (@DIF_Fotboll) November 7, 2024

Djurgården’s Road Ahead

With one win, one draw, and one loss in the group stage, Djurgården will face The New Saints (TNS), Vikingur, and Legia Warszawa in the remaining three Conference League group matches. Their victory over Panathinaikos puts them in a strong position to advance if they continue to capitalise on their momentum.

Panathinaikos’ former Allsvenskan top scorer, Alexander Jeremejeff, remained on the bench throughout the match, unable to help his team overcome the Swedish side’s spirited comeback.

Site Opinion

Djurgården’s performance against Panathinaikos demonstrates the resilience and adaptability of this Swedish side. Their capacity to overturn a deficit, especially after a challenging start to the season, showcases the effectiveness of Björknesjö’s tactical adjustments. Moving Tobias Gulliksen to a central role has not only benefited the player but has also injected greater fluidity and creativity into Djurgården’s attacking line. This shift seems to have unlocked potential in the team’s build-up play, giving them a sharper edge in their offensive approach.

Moreover, while the VAR decision created drama, it also underscored the fairness and accuracy the technology can bring to crucial moments. Djurgården fans, initially protesting the system, found their team benefiting from it, a reminder of VAR’s capacity to influence outcomes positively. This win could serve as a turning point in Djurgården’s European campaign, providing them with confidence and cohesion as they look to make an impact in the Conference League.