Antony and Sofyan Amrabat eliminate Facundo Pellistri from the Europa League

The two former Manchester United players struck in a 4-0 victory over Panathinaikos, after losing the first leg 1-0.

Antony (pictured top) celebrated his goal in an unusual manner, taking a flat cap from the crowd to wear and soak up the applause.

Former United winger Facundo Pellistri played 71 minutes for the Greek side, but was unable to influence the result.

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Sofyan Amrabat scores wondergoal

Sofyan Amrabat played for Manchester United during the 2023/24 season on loan from Fiorentina. He played a key role in the FA Cup Final win over Manchester City, stepping in for Casemiro.

United did not sign Amrabat permanently, and he joined Fenerbahce in 2024/25.

This past summer he signed with Real Betis, and his contribution to their win over Panathinaikos was his best moment for the club so far.

Amrabat scored a long-range goal from outside the box at the end of the first half to give his side the lead on aggregate. And they never looked back.

TNT Sports described Amrabat’s goal as ‘stunning’. If only he did this in a Manchester United shirt!

Antony numbers vs Facundo Pellistri

It was a tale of two wingers when Antony faced Facundo Pellistri, and a reminder of how transfer fees influence perception.

Antony cost £80 million, and against this fee, his contribution for United was judged to be below par. He did not meet expectations, but still scored goals against Manchester City, Arsenal, Everton, Liverpool and Barcelona among others.

Facundo Pellistri cost £7 million, and did not score a senior goal for the club in 25 appearances.

Antony was the better player – but is remembered more harshly due to the fee. And that makes sense.

But this match-up was a reminder that Antony is still a level above Pellistri.

Pellistri has no goals and two assists for Panathinaikos this season. Injury has restricted him to only 15 games so far.

Antony has now scored 12 goals and provided nine assists for Real Betis so far.

Real Betis now face Portuguese side Braga in the quarter-finals.