Ajax Amsterdam secured a crucial 2-0 win over Waalwijk in a hard-fought Eredivisie match, with substitute Bertrand Traoré playing a pivotal role by contributing both a goal and an assist. The Burkinabé international, who came off the bench in the second half, sparked his team’s attack and was instrumental in the victory on matchday 7.
The first half of the contest saw both teams struggling to break the deadlock.
Ajax, while dominant in possession, found Waalwijk’s defense difficult to penetrate, and the score remained goalless as the teams headed into the break.
With the match finely balanced, Ajax coach Maurice Steijn made a tactical switch in the 65th minute, introducing Bertrand Traoré to inject pace and creativity into the side. The decision quickly paid off, as the 28-year-old winger made an immediate impact.
In the 76th minute, Traoré broke the deadlock with a stunning goal, showcasing his individual brilliance.
‘Mister 1-0’ maakt ‘m niet ❌
Bertrand Traoré wel ✅RKC Waalwijk – Ajax: 0-1#rkcaja
— ESPN NL (@ESPNnl) September 29, 2024
Picking up the ball on the edge of the box, the Ajax forward executed a sharp dribble past two defenders before unleashing a powerful shot into the back of the net.
The goal not only lifted the spirits of the Amsterdam crowd but also gave Ajax the momentum they needed to push for a second.
As the match entered stoppage time, Traoré once again showed his influence.
In the 90+4 minute, the Burkinabé provided a precise assist to Mika Godts, who calmly slotted home to secure Ajax’s second goal of the night.
The victory was sealed, and Traoré had played a key role in ensuring Ajax came away with all three points.
This performance continued Traoré’s impressive run of form, having recently provided an assist in Ajax’s Europa League fixture.
His contributions against Waalwijk highlighted his value to the team, both as a playmaker and a finisher.
Ajax’s win moves them up the Eredivisie table, and while the performance wasn’t their most fluid, the result was what mattered most.
For Traoré, his ability to change the game from the bench will further solidify his importance to the squad as they aim for a strong season both domestically and in Europe.
As Ajax looks ahead to their next fixture, all eyes will be on Traoré, who has demonstrated that he can be relied upon to deliver when it matters most.
