In a packed Kuip, the Cup final had a weak start. Both teams fought during the first minutes of the match, but the slow pace and carelessness in ball possession prevented any real chances from happening in Rotterdam-Zuid.
Lead Ajax
Ajax had its first big opportunity briefly before half-time. John Heitinga’s team used the first dangerous moment in front of its rival’s goal to score. Steven Bergwijn got past his opponent Teze with a clever diversion, after which the winger smashed his effort into the net via PSV defender Branthwaite: 1-0. With that on the scoreboard, the teams went into half-time.
The lead had a visibly good effect on Ajax. The Ajax players started the second half full of energy, which almost resulted in a second Ajax goal. Brian Brobbey took down PSV keeper Drommel but hit the post after taking a shot in front of the open goal.
PSV equalize
Where Ajax failed to score 2-0, PSV made the 1-1 via Hazard a short while later. The Belgian got passed substitute Devyne Rensch and scored via an assist from Simons.
Despite multiple chances on both sides, no goals were scored in the second half. The usual 90 minutes were not enough to determine a winner. In the extra time, both teams failed to hit the net. This meant the Ajax players had to take penalties after 120 minutes. In this penalty series, Ajax missed three times. PSV managed to score one penalty more.
Ajax - PSV 1-1* (2-3 after penalties)
42. Branthwaite (e.d.) 1-0
67. Hazard 1-1
Ajax: Rulli; Sánchez (46. Rensch), Timber, Álvarez, Hato (75. Wijndal); Klaassen (115. Vos), Grillitsch (68. Bassey), Tadic; Berghuis (75. Conceição), Brobbey, Bergwijn (115. Godts)
