CYRIEL Dessers scored the opening goal tonight to lead Cremonese to a shock 2-1 victory over AS Roma in the quarter-finals of the Coppa Italia.
The Super Eagles striker netted from the penalty spot in the 28th minute, while an own goal from Zeki Celik two minutes after the break left the Stadio Olimpico stunned.
It was the first appearance and first goal for Dessers in the Coppa Italia, but he has scored four goals in 18 appearances across all competitions this season.
The other Nigerian striker at Cremonese, David Okereke, replaced Dessers at the beginning of the second half as the minnows added Roma’s scalp to Napoli’s, who they defeated in the round of 16.
Shell-shocked hosts Roma laboured in vain to get back on level terms and they only got a consolation goal through Andrea Bellotti in stoppage time.
Cremonese, who have reached their first Coppa Italia semi-finals since 1987, will face Fiorentina in the last four.
Fiorentina defeated Torino 2-1 earlier tonight to reach the semi-finals, with Luka Jovic and Jonathan Ikone giving them a two-goal lead before Yann Karamoh reduced the deficit for the visitors in added time.
Super Eagles defender Ola Aina, who had been out to a long-term injury, played the last 28 minutes for Torino as they chased the game to to avail.
