Ajax drew a friendly against VfB Stuttgart (2-2) last Sunday and the first competitive match of 2025 followed against RKC. Ajax had a dream start when a foul on Brian Brobbey in the fourth minute lead to a spot kick. Steven Berghuis then kept his cool to convert the penalty.
Francesco Farioli's team was firmly in control and doubled their advantage after 41 minutes. The midfielder remained on his feet and took keeper Joey Kesting by surprise with a right footed shot to the near post: 2-0.
In the second half, goals from Mika Godts and Wout Weghorst were ruled out for offside. Ajax were able to close out the game after RKC reduced the deficit to one shortly before full time. Former Ajax man Mohamed Ihattaren scored off the inside of the post.
In added time, Ajax had to complete the match with ten men. Owen Wijndal was injured and couldn't continue. Francesco Farioli's substitution windows had all been used and Ajax weren't able to bring on a new player. Fortunately, the score remained 2-1 and Ajax were able to record their first points of 2025.
Ajax - RKC 2-1 (2-0)
4. Berghuis 1-0 (p.)
41. Taylor 2-0
86. Ihattaren 2-1
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