Ajax made a poor start in Nijmegen and quickly fell behind. Vitezslav Jaros produced two outstanding saves, but a subsequent cross again came towards his goal and the ball was lightly touched by the Czech goalkeeper. The big question was whether the ball had crossed the goal line, but referee Lindhout nevertheless awarded the goal.
After around 25 minutes Ajax gained more control and, with half-time approaching, the visitors restored order. After 39 minutes it was 1–1: Kasper Dolberg finished from a pass by compatriot Anton Gaaei.
Five minutes later Ajax also took the lead. Mika Godts punished a major defensive error by NEC. Youri Regeer intercepted excellently, after which Godts finished clinically: 1–2.
Immediately after the break NEC drew level. Sami Ouaissa struck with his left foot into the far corner: 2–2. The same Ouaissa soon found himself in the spotlight again, but in a very different role. The NEC winger was shown a red card after a challenge on Davy Klaassen.
Ajax immediately had a big chance to make it 2–3, but substitute Kenneth Taylor hit the side netting. After that, the Amsterdam side’s chances dried up somewhat. Ajax failed to make good use of the numerical advantage of eleven against ten.
NEC - Ajax 2-2 (1-2)
3. Linssen 1-0
39. Dolberg 1-1
44. Godts 1-2
46. Ouaissa 2-2
Ajax: Jaros, Gaaei, Itakura, Baas, Rosa (90+2. Mokio), Regeer, Klaassen (73. Bounida), Steur (46. Taylor), Gloukh (83. Konadu), Dolberg, Godts
