Gilberto plays in surprise Werder Breme victory
November 5, 2008
Panathinaikos Stun Bremen
Henk Ten Cate’s Panathinaikos blew the race for 2nd place wide open in Group B, as they recorded a stunning upset against Werder Bremen this evening, running out deserved 3-0 victors at the Weserstadion.
Importantly, they added a counter-attacking edge to their football that had been non-existent throughout the first-half and they should have taken the lead after ten minutes of play, breaking well through former Arsenal captain Gilberto Silva in midfield.
The Brazilian released Sweden international Mikael Nilsson down the right, whose low ball into the area found Karagounis unmarked at the far post. Opting to strike the ball first-time, the Euro 2004-winner wasted a glorious opportunity, skewing his effort both high and wide.
Amazingly, Gilberto Silva had the chance to cap an amazing night with a fourth goal when he tried to ‘round Wiese and finish from a tight angle moments later, as Panathinaikos added another famous European night to their already prestigious collection, blowing the race for 2nd place wide open in Group B.