FC Utrecht bolstered their European ambitions with an impressive 3-1 home victory over FC Groningen on Sunday, highlighted by spectacular goals from Sébastien Haller and Souffian El Karouani.
The Eredivisie clash saw Utrecht take control early, with Moroccan international El Karouani opening the scoring in just the 8th minute.
His stunning strike gave the hosts an immediate advantage and set the tone for a dominant first-half performance.
Utrecht continued to dictate the tempo, and shortly before the break, Sébastien Haller doubled the lead with a moment of brilliance.
The Ivorian striker found the net with an audacious backheel in the 42nd minute, a goal that left fans and teammates alike in awe.
Souffian El Karouani met een 𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐰𝐨𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞 uithaal ☄️#utrgro
— ESPN NL (@ESPNnl) April 13, 2025
The two first-half goals, both executed with flair and precision, were crucial in a match that carried significant implications for the European qualification race.
Utrecht, now firmly in contention, applied pressure on rivals FC Twente and AZ Alkmaar with this important three-point haul.
Groningen did manage to pull one back in the second half, momentarily threatening a comeback, but Utrecht restored their two-goal cushion and closed out the match with composure.
The result leaves Utrecht well-positioned as the league season enters its final stretch.
El Karouani’s early goal not only energized the home crowd but showcased the Moroccan full-back’s growing confidence and technical ability.
Meanwhile, Haller’s inventive finish underlined the Ivorian’s class and instinct in front of goal, reminding fans of his pedigree as a top-tier striker.
Utrecht manager and players have spoken in recent weeks about the importance of making a strong push for Europe, and Sunday’s performance reflected that urgency.
Sébastien Haller doet het op Legends Day met een hakje 💫#utrgro
— ESPN NL (@ESPNnl) April 13, 2025
The victory extends Utrecht’s positive run of form and keeps them within striking distance of the Eredivisie’s European qualifying spots.
With momentum on their side and attacking players delivering moments of magic, Utrecht now turn their attention to the upcoming fixtures, fully aware that every match could determine whether they secure continental football next season.
The quality of the goals and the significance of the result make this one of Utrecht’s standout performances of the season — a timely display of ambition, skill, and resilience on their march toward Europe.
