Fred Grim started with the same eleven names as in the final match before the winter break against NEC (3–3), and that paid off in the opening phase. Within a quarter of an hour Ajax were leading 0–2.
After eleven minutes, Gloukh made it 0–1. His shot, which changed direction on its way, proved too much for goalkeeper Ronald Koeman. Shortly afterwards, Godts made it 0–2. The Belgian was superbly played through by Baas and then remained ice-cold in the finish.
As the first half progressed, Ajax had chances to extend their lead. Koeman, however, got in the way of attempts by Dolberg and Godts (twice).
In the second half Ajax were less convincing. Telstar were reduced to ten men after just eight minutes following a foul by Cedric Hatenboer on Youri Regeer, but that did not lead to a completely carefree afternoon.
Baas did head in the 0–3 from a corner, and anyone who thought the points were secured was mistaken. In the final quarter of an hour Telstar fought back to 2–3, but that was as far as they got. After a long seven minutes of stoppage time, the Ajacieden could breathe a sigh of relief and add the first three points of 2026.
With the win, Ajax closed the gap to second-placed Feyenoord to three points.
Telstar - Ajax 2-3 (0-2)
11. Gloukh 0-1
14. Godts 0-2
72. Baas 0-3
78. Baas 1-3 (own goal)
84. Bakker 2-3
Ajax: Jaros, Gaaei (84. Edvardsen), Itakura, Baas, Rosa, Regeer (65. Fitz-Jim), Steur (75. Mokio), Klaassen, Gloukh (65. Bounida), Dolberg (75. Konadu), Godts.
