Arokodare: ‘If the Team Win, We All Win’ After Ajax Brace
Tolu Arokodare insists his priority is to make an impact whenever he gets the opportunity after marking his first Ajax start with two goals in their 5-3 victory over FC Sion on Thursday, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
The Nigerian striker was handed his first competitive start by coach Míchel Sánchez and took full advantage of the opportunity, scoring in first-half stoppage time before completing his brace in the 51st minute.
Asked why he was selected to start, Arokodare gave a straightforward explanation.
“The reason was that the coach decided I would start,” he said.
The 25-year-old acknowledged that his selection could be part of the rotation in Ajax’s attacking department, with Kasper Dolberg and Leonardo also competing for opportunities.
“I think it was my turn. You have seen that there is a kind of rotation with Kasper and Leo, so maybe this weekend or next weekend it will be Kasper or Leonardo again. The coach decides,” Arokodare added.
Despite his impressive goalscoring display, the Nigeria international maintained that his main objective is to contribute whenever he is on the pitch.
“I try to help the team and make an impact in every way I can, whether I play or not, whether I start or not. In the end, it is simple: if the team win, we all win. That is what matters,” he said.
Arokodare’s performance also attracted praise from former Netherlands international Rafael van der Vaart, who believes the striker offers more than just an alternative option in Ajax’s attack.
“Everything is going against his competitor Leonardo, and he just swings at the ball and scores,” Van der Vaart said during half-time analysis on Ziggo Sport.
The former Tottenham midfielder was particularly impressed by Arokodare’s aerial strength.
“I feel like he doesn’t lose any aerial duels either. Great impression,” he added.
Arokodare’s goals helped Ajax secure a 5-3 victory on the night and a 9-5 aggregate triumph to advance to the Conference League league phase. He was substituted shortly after the hour mark to a standing ovation from the home supporters.
The brace takes his tally to three goals and two assists in five appearances across all competitions since joining Ajax this summer.
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