Rovers denied famous away win vs AEK after controversial VAR penalty decision
Shamrock Rovers came within touching distance of a historic Conference League victory in Greece, only for a late penalty to deny them at the very end. Graham Burke’s early spot kick put the Hoops ahead against AEK Athens, sparking dreams of one of the finest European results for a League of Ireland side.
However, in the final minute, Serbian striker Luka Jovic converted a penalty for AEK, ensuring the home side earned a draw. Despite the heartbreak, the result remains significant for Rovers — their first draw in the group stage — securing €133,000 in prize money and keeping their hopes alive for the knockout rounds.
“It was painful how it happened. AEK had apparently run out of ideas, and even their fans had turned their frustration on their own team.”
Stephen Bradley’s men had defended impressively throughout, holding firm in both halves before the late reversal. For much of the game, the home supporters resorted to pointing laser pens, adding a tense edge to the encounter that nearly ended in Rovers’ greatest night.
Summary
Shamrock Rovers narrowly missed a historic away win in Greece as a last-minute penalty by Luka Jovic forced a draw that still offers hope for their European campaign.