Nigeria striker Cyriel Dessers scored twice to inspire Panathinaikos to an emphatic 5-1 victory over Kairat Almaty in the UEFA Conference League.

The Nigerian forward opened his account from the penalty spot in the 24th minute before completing his brace in the 47th minute to help the Greek side secure a convincing away win.

Dessers’ impressive performance further underlined his growing influence in the competition, taking his tally to three goals in two UEFA Conference League appearances.

The former Rangers striker is now among the competition’s joint-top scorers, according to the latest standings.

His goalscoring form could strengthen his case for a return to the Super Eagles squad as Nigeria prepare for a double-header against Tanzania in the qualifying campaign for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

With Dessers finding his scoring touch at club level, the decision now rests with Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle on whether to include the striker in his plans for the upcoming qualifiers.