Naujoks' Double Powers Excelsior to Stunning 2-1 Upset Over Ajax at Johan Cruijff Arena
Amsterdam, Netherlands — Excelsior stunned Ajax Amsterdam with a 2-1 victory at the Johan Cruijff Arena on Saturday, powered by Noah Naujoks' impressive first-half double. The visitors delivered a tactical masterclass to silence the Amsterdam crowd and claim a rare victory at one of Dutch football's most intimidating venues.
The visitors broke the deadlock in the 37th minute when Naujoks unleashed a left-footed shot from outside the box that found the bottom right corner. Rick Meissen provided the assist, picking out his teammate with perfect timing as Excelsior capitalized on a period of sustained pressure. The goal came against the run of play, sending shockwaves through the home supporters who had been in full voice.
Excelsior wasted no time doubling their advantage after the break. Just one minute into the second half, Naujoks struck again with a clinical right-footed finish from the center of the box to the bottom right corner. The striker's composure in front of goal showcased why he's becoming one of the Eredivisie's most promising talents, celebrating with the small but jubilant traveling support.
The hosts responded with increased urgency, and their efforts were rewarded in the 59th minute when Kasper Dolberg pulled one back. The Danish forward converted with a right-footed shot from the center of the box, finishing Mika Godts' well-weighted assist to breathe life back into Ajax's hopes. The stadium erupted as the momentum shifted, with Ajax throwing everything forward in search of an equalizer.
The match featured its share of physical play, with Wout Weghorst and Ilias Bronkhorst receiving yellow cards in the first half, followed by Josip Sutalo's caution in the 57th minute. Ajax manager made a desperate tactical switch in the 84th minute, bringing on veteran midfielder Davy Klaassen for defender Sutalo as they pushed for a late equalizer. Meanwhile, injuries forced Excelsior to make two substitutions at the same time, with Lewis Schouten and Simon Janssen entering the fray.
Despite six minutes of added time and relentless pressure from the hosts, Excelsior's defense held firm to secure a memorable victory. The result represents a significant setback for Ajax's title aspirations, while Excelsior's players celebrated wildly with their supporters at the final whistle, savoring a triumph that will be remembered for years to come. The visitors' disciplined defensive display and clinical finishing proved the difference in a contest that showcased the unpredictable nature of Dutch football.