Ajax Triumphs Over Heracles in Epic Greek Showdown to Claim Third Victory in Two Months

Following a disappointing 2-1 defeat at home against FC Twente that saw them slip to fifth place, Ajax had plenty to prove. The squad welcomed back Oscar Gloukh and Ko Itakura, who made his return after two months sidelined due to injury.

The Amsterdam side wasted no time in asserting their dominance, taking the lead within the first 15 minutes through Mika Godts, who expertly lobbed the ball over a rushing Remko Pasveer, rejoining his former teammates after receiving a brilliant long ball from compatriot Jorthy Mokio.

A well-orchestrated move allowed Steven Berghuis to extend the lead shortly after, striking a powerful shot into Pasveer’s far corner following a series of quick passes just outside the Heracles penalty area.

The remainder of the first half saw a lack of clear-cut chances for either side, as Ajax comfortably maintained their two-goal advantage heading into the break.

Youri Baas emerged as a hero for the travelling fans when he made a spectacular clearance off the line, preventing Heracles from reducing their deficit.

Ajax’s attempts were thwarted by the woodwork on two occasions during the second half—first when Wout Weghorst’s shot found the crossbar, then again when Mika Godts’ opportunity was also denied in the 70th minute.

As Ajax led 3-0, Heracles seemed poised for a miraculous comeback when Takehiro Tomiyasu was dismissed just 14 minutes after coming on, having brought down Lequincio Zeefuik as the last man.

However, Heracles could not capitalise on their one-man advantage, as Ajax secured their third Eredivisie victory since February 1st and continued their pursuit of a second-place finish and a spot in next year’s UEFA Champions League.