Tolu Arokodare rescues Ajax in 2-2 draw with Excelsior

Ajax dropped important points in the Eredivisie title race on Saturday after being held to a 2-2 draw by Excelsior, despite a spectacular contribution from substitute Tolu Arokodare.

The Amsterdam side controlled much of the match at Johan Cruijff ArenA, but visitors Excelsior were highly efficient in front of goal. The result leaves Ajax vulnerable to being overtaken in the title race, with PSV and AZ able to move five points clear on Sunday. Feyenoord can also go three points ahead of their historic rivals.

Kasper Dolberg started once again in attack for Ajax, while Viktor Tsygankov made his first start for the club in place of the absent Steven Berghuis. Michel Sanchez’s side took control from the opening minutes and dominated possession, although clear opportunities were scarce.

Ajax suffered another setback when Caio Henrique was forced off with an injury and replaced by Owen Wijndal. The hosts gradually found their rhythm, with Dolberg hitting the crossbar before Excelsior goalkeeper Van Gassel denied Thilo Kehrer’s header.

The pressure eventually told in the 32nd minute. Julian Brandt opened the scoring after meeting Oscar Gloukh’s low cross, and Ajax appeared ready to build on the momentum created by Tuesday’s victory against Willem II. Their fluent attacking play suggested a second goal was close.

Excelsior, however, offered a far greater threat than the Tilburg side had managed. Ajax began to look complacent, allowing Lennard Hartjes to equalise. The Kralingers endured spells of pressure and occasional disruption but went into half-time level at 1-1.

Ajax tried to increase the intensity after the restart, only for Excelsior to stun the home crowd shortly after the hour mark. Aymen Sliti, who is on loan from Feyenoord, put the visitors ahead at 2-1.

Their lead lasted only briefly. Arokodare came off the bench to level the score, receiving the acclaim of the home supporters as he finished a move created by Gloukh. The Nigeria striker’s goal made it 2-2 and gave Ajax fresh hope of completing a comeback.

The hosts then pushed hard for a winner. Van Gassel saved a powerful effort from Anton Gaaei, while Gloukh struck the post. David Garden also cleared Tolu’s header off the line, denying Ajax what appeared to be a certain goal.

Michel’s team maintained a relentless tempo and kept Excelsior pinned deep in their own half, but the chances continued to go against them. Tolu hit the post with another header, adding to Ajax’s frustration.

The tension lasted until the final whistle, but Ajax could not convert its late opportunities. The draw means the Amsterdam club has surrendered valuable points in the Eredivisie, while their rivals have the chance to strengthen their positions on Sunday.