‘Practically impossible to defend’ – Ajax insider stunned by Tolu Arokodare’s aerial dominance

Ajax insider Lentin Goodijk believes defenders have little chance of stopping Tolu Arokodare in aerial duels, following the Nigerian striker’s impressive start to life in Amsterdam.

The football analyst has been particularly impressed by the Wolverhampton Wanderers loanee’s physical attributes, describing his combination of height, timing and jumping ability as a nightmare for opposing defenders.

Arokodare has quickly established himself as a major attacking threat since joining Ajax during the summer transfer window.

The Super Eagles forward has scored 13 goals in 17 appearances for the Dutch giants, continuing his impressive run with another headed effort against FC Twente in Ajax’s final match before the international break.

His growing influence has attracted attention in the Netherlands, with Goodijk identifying his aerial ability as one of the most difficult qualities for opponents to contain.

The Ajax insider believes even defenders with good physical attributes would struggle to compete with the 25-year-old when the ball is delivered into the penalty area.

Speaking on Voetbal International’s Rondje Eredivisie, as reported by Ajax Showtime, Goodijk explained why stopping Arokodare in the air presents such a difficult challenge.

“If you, as a left-back, have to win the header against Tolu, it is practically impossible to defend.

“You have to sit on your teammate’s neck or something, and then maybe you can win.”

Arokodare’s aerial threat gives Ajax another weapon

Goodijk also recalled Arokodare’s performance against AZ Alkmaar, where the Nigerian demonstrated the qualities that make him such a formidable presence in the penalty area.

He highlighted the striker’s exceptional leap and ability to attack crosses early, arguing that defenders are often left with little opportunity to challenge him successfully.

“He jumps so early and so high that you almost won’t win that header duel against him.

“Maybe a free defender could still do something, but Tolu is of course very focused.”

The numbers further underline Goodijk’s assessment of the striker’s aerial dominance.

Five of Arokodare’s 13 goals for Ajax have come through headers, against FC Sion, NEC, AZ Alkmaar, FC Midtjylland and Twente.

That return highlights how effectively the Nigerian has used his physical attributes to become a consistent goal threat.

His ability to occupy defenders, win aerial battles and convert crosses has added another dimension to Ajax’s attacking options.

Super Eagles striker takes impressive form into international duty

Arokodare’s performances in the Netherlands have also strengthened his growing reputation as one of Nigeria’s attacking options.

His latest goal against Twente came just before his departure for international duty with the Super Eagles in Uyo.

The striker will hope to maintain his scoring form at international level after making such an impressive impression in his early months at Ajax.

With 13 goals in 17 appearances, Arokodare is already delivering significant returns for the Amsterdam club.

And if Goodijk’s assessment is anything to go by, his aerial dominance could remain one of Ajax’s biggest weapons as the season progresses.