Ajax held by Excelsior as Arokodare’s late strike earns 2-2 draw

Ajax dropped two valuable points in the Eredivisie title race on Saturday as Excelsior recovered from behind twice to secure a 2-2 draw at the Johan Cruijff ArenA.

The hosts controlled possession for long periods and created enough chances to win, but Excelsior proved highly efficient in front of goal. The result gives PSV and AZ the opportunity to move five points clear on Sunday, while Feyenoord can open up a three-point advantage over their historic rivals.

Kasper Dolberg retained his place as Ajax’s starting striker, while Viktor Tsygankov made his first start after Steven Berghuis was ruled out. Michel Sanchez’s side immediately took control of the match, although clear openings were limited during the early stages.

Ajax also suffered an injury setback when Caio Henrique was forced off and replaced by Owen Wijndal.

The home side gradually began to find more space. Dolberg struck the crossbar, before Excelsior goalkeeper Van Gassel denied Thilo Kehrer’s header. Ajax finally broke the deadlock in the 32nd minute, when Julian Brandt converted a low cross from Oscar Gloukh.

As in Tuesday’s match against Willem II, the opening goal appeared to encourage Ajax to attack with greater purpose. Their passing became more fluid and a second goal seemed likely.

Excelsior, however, offered a greater threat than Willem II had managed. Ajax were punished after losing their intensity, with Lennard Hartjes bringing the visitors level. Excelsior were unsettled at times before the interval, but the Kralingers went into the break with the score at 1-1.

Ajax increased the pressure after half-time, but the match changed again shortly after the hour mark. Aymen Sliti, who is on loan from Feyenoord, put Excelsior in front with a surprise goal to make it 2-1.

The visitors’ lead lasted only briefly. Substitute Tolu Arokodare restored parity to the delight of the home crowd, finishing a move set up by Gloukh to make it 2-2.

Ajax then pushed for a winning goal and came close on several occasions. Van Gassel kept out a powerful effort from Anton Gaaei, while Gloukh hit the post. David Garden also cleared Tolu Arokodare’s header off the line.

Michel’s team continued to press Excelsior deep inside their own half and maintained a high tempo, but the chances continued to go unconverted. Tolu Arokodare struck the post with another header as Ajax were repeatedly denied by a combination of defending and misfortune.

The pressure continued until the final whistle, but Ajax could not find a third goal. Their failure to turn dominance into victory means they have surrendered important points in the Eredivisie title race.