Aberdeen kept up the momentum in the Scottish Premiership by securing a solid 4-1 victory over Dundee, a response that midfielder Ante Palaversa never doubted would come. Despite the disappointment of their recent 6-1 loss to Celtic in the Premier Sports Cup semi-final, Palaversa and the Dons were determined to show resilience. He opened the scoring in this match, setting the tone for Aberdeen’s response to critics and helping to extend their unbeaten run in the league. Filling in for Sivert Nilsen, Palaversa credited teamwork and unity for the win, emphasizing how each player contributed to the overall performance. “It was all about sticking together,” he noted, adding that despite the challenges, he never sensed any doubt within the team about bouncing back.
The first half had its tense moments, especially when Aberdeen’s keeper, Dimitar Mitov, saved a penalty from Simon Murray that could have turned the game. Palaversa praised Mitov’s critical save, describing it as a pivotal moment that helped the team regroup at halftime and push forward in the second half. In addition to Palaversa’s opening goal, Topi Keskinen netted a second after a defensive lapse by Dundee. Although Simon Murray responded by scoring for Dundee, Kevin Nisbet and Vicente Besuijen added two more goals for Aberdeen, with Nisbet’s final deflected strike sealing the dominant win in stoppage time. This victory was Palaversa’s second goal since his arrival from Troyes, with the potential for Aberdeen to secure him on an extended contract.
Reflecting on his time at Aberdeen, Palaversa expressed gratitude for the opportunity to improve and grow within a positive environment, especially given the challenges he faced before joining the club. He emphasized his commitment to hard work and personal development, saying he’s focused on training, proving his abilities, and contributing to the team’s success. The Croatian playmaker recognized the strong competition within Aberdeen’s squad, noting that players constantly push each other to perform better, which has enhanced the team’s quality and consistency.
Palaversa’s talent and ambition are well-known—his potential was acknowledged when Manchester City signed him for £7 million. At 24, he’s eager to prove himself at this level, with aspirations to eventually play for Croatia’s senior national team, having represented them at every youth level. As he looks forward to Croatia’s upcoming match against Scotland, where his Aberdeen teammate Nicky Devlin will represent Scotland, Palaversa expressed pride in Devlin’s achievement, calling it “the biggest success in football.” Reflecting on his own journey, he remains humble and committed, knowing that as the team plays well, so does he.
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