Defoe scored from the spot after 67 minutes to take his tally in European competition to 23 on Thursday as Tottenham booked their place in the last 32 of the UEFA Europa League with victory over the Moldovan side.
Erik Lamela had given the hosts the lead on the hour mark before Defoe's spot-kick put Andre Villas-Boas' side in command.
"It was a frustrating night as they camped in and gave us no space in behind," Defoe told ITV.
"I had to stay patient and I am delighted to score the goal and take the European scoring record. What an opportunity to do it, I was confident with the penalty.
"I saw Martin Chivers at half-time, he said to me to keep going and I would get the record. He's a legend."
"Erik Lamela was fantastic tonight," Defoe added.
"He is strong, good on the ball and it is difficult when you come into a club at a young age. But he made things happen for us, I'm delighted for him."
