Sonko's winning spot‑kick sends Gent into Conference League next round

Momodou Sonko stepped up as the fourth penalty taker and calmly converted the decisive spot‑kick, sending KAA Gent into the next round of the UEFA Conference League after a 4‑2 shootout victory over LNZ Cherkasy, despite a modest overall performance.

LNZ Cherkasy missed two penalties, which gave Sonko the opportunity to take the final spot‑kick and secure the win for Gent.

IFK Göteborg later defeated Levadia Tallinn 1‑3 after extra time, earning a place in the same competition and setting up Gent's upcoming tie against the Swedish side.

"How did it feel to take and convert the decisive penalty? It felt wonderful. The pressure was manageable," Sonko said, expressing confidence.

"It's nice that we can go to Sweden. My family lives there, so it will be pleasant to see them and play while they can watch," he added.

"Step by step we will make progress. The season is long and it is still early," Sonko noted, confident ahead of the clash with IFK Göteborg, a historic club.

The accompanying image bears the credit "Foto: © photonews NIEUW", and fans are invited to "Ontvang meldingen bij belangrijk nieuws" by signing up "HIER" and to "Word fan van KAA Gent". The original material also features the tagline "1893 Eerlijk?" and encourages readers to "Schrijf je nu in voor de Voetbalkrant nieuwsbrief". The win forms a key moment in Gent's Europese campagne.