Ajax ended PSV’s unbeaten streak in the Eredivisie with a dramatic 3-2 victory at the Johan Cruyff Arena. Luuk de Jong initially put PSV ahead, but Davy Klaassen equalized before halftime. Ivan Perisic restored PSV’s lead in the second half, only for Kian Fitz-Jim to draw level once again.
Embed from Getty Images
Ajax dramatically ended PSV’s unbeaten run in the Dutch Eredivisie this Saturday with an intense 3-2 victory in the 11th round of the competition.
This crucial win not only boosted Ajax’s morale but also enabled them to close the gap on their rivals, shaking up the race at the top of the standings.
The match, held at the iconic Johan Cruyff Arena, saw PSV enter as the league leaders, unbeaten and brimming with confidence after securing 10 consecutive wins. Ajax, however, came in with determination and a desire to reassert their dominance, having not beaten PSV in any competitive fixture since January 2022.
The game opened with high intensity, and it was PSV who drew first blood. In the 18th minute, Luuk de Jong capitalized on a well-timed cross, powering a header past the Ajax goalkeeper to give the visitors an early advantage. The Eindhoven side looked to build on their lead, showcasing their attacking prowess through rapid counterattacks and skillful possession play.
Despite PSV’s pressure, Ajax’s midfield, anchored by experienced players, began to claw back control. Just before halftime, in the 43rd minute, Davy Klaassen made his mark. The veteran midfielder latched onto a precise pass, maneuvered past the defense, and slotted the ball home to level the score, sending the home crowd into raptures.
The second half continued with both teams displaying tactical acumen and fierce competitiveness. In the 54th minute, Ivan Perisic, PSV’s Croatian star, broke through Ajax’s defensive line and found the net with a powerful strike, reestablishing PSV’s lead. His goal showcased not only his technical ability but also highlighted why he remains a vital asset to his team’s attacking lineup.
Ajax, however, refused to be outdone. Their resilience paid off in the 66th minute when young midfielder Kian Fitz-Jim demonstrated impressive composure. With a well-executed run, he met a low cross in the box and coolly placed the ball into the bottom corner, equalizing the game once more and reigniting hope for the home side.
The defining moment came in the 74th minute when Belgian substitute Mika Godts, who had been brought on to inject fresh energy into the squad, delivered the winning blow. Seizing an opportunity created by Ajax’s dynamic build-up play, Godts unleashed a precise shot that left PSV’s keeper stranded. The goal marked a remarkable turnaround and underscored the depth of Ajax’s squad and the tactical vision of their coach, Francesco Farioli.
This victory was significant for Ajax, marking their sixth consecutive win in the Eredivisie and solidifying their second-place position. They are now just five points behind PSV, with one game in hand, reigniting the battle for the top spot and proving that they remain a formidable contender despite their earlier struggles in the season.
For PSV, the defeat ended a stellar unbeaten streak that had spanned 10 matches, shaking their otherwise strong campaign. It also marked the first setback for head coach Peter Bosz, who had previously led his team to a flawless run with a blend of attacking flair and disciplined defense. The loss will undoubtedly serve as a wake-up call for PSV, as they seek to regroup and maintain their lead in the league.
The match not only highlighted Ajax’s tactical versatility and fighting spirit but also set the stage for an intriguing remainder of the season. With both teams showing high-caliber performances, the race for the Eredivisie title has become more unpredictable than ever. Fans can look forward to more thrilling encounters as Ajax and PSV continue to battle for supremacy in Dutch football.
Updated: 09:46, 3 Nov 2024
