Ajax Survive Late Telstar Fightback to Win Thriller 3-2

VELSEN-Zuid, NETHERLANDS — Ajax survived a heart-stopping finale to edge Telstar 3-2 in a pulsating Eredivisie encounter that transformed from a seemingly routine victory into a nerve-shredding battle at 711 Stadion. The Amsterdam giants appeared completely in control before a spirited home comeback threatened to unravel their carefully constructed advantage.

From the opening whistle, Ajax asserted their tactical superiority, dominating possession with 65% of the ball and pinning Telstar back through intelligent, probing play. Oscar Gloukh, the Israeli midfielder known for his composure under pressure, opened the scoring in the 11th minute with a clinical right-footed strike that epitomized Ajax's technical prowess. Receiving a precise pass from Anton Gaaei, Gloukh found the high centre of the goal with a measured finish that immediately signaled the visitors' intent.

Just three minutes later, Mika Godts doubled the advantage with a moment of individual brilliance that showcased the young talent coursing through Ajax's ranks. Cutting in from the left side at a challenging angle, Godts rifled a right-footed shot into the bottom right corner, leaving Telstar's goalkeeper Ronald Koeman rooted to the spot. Youri Baas provided the initial build-up play, further highlighting Ajax's fluid attacking movement.

The statistical dominance was stark. Ajax unleashed 16 shots compared to Telstar's seven, with an impressive 10 efforts testing Koeman's reflexes. The goalkeeper was exceptional, making seven crucial saves that prevented the scoreline from becoming truly embarrassing for the home side. Ajax's clinical efficiency was evident, converting 63% of their on-target attempts into genuine scoring opportunities.

The tactical battle saw midfielders Youri Regeer and Oscar Gloukh control the game's rhythm, their possession-based approach gradually eroding Telstar's defensive resolve. Despite being outclassed, the hosts displayed admirable fighting spirit, with Danny Bakker and Nils Rossen occasionally threatening on counter-attacks that kept Ajax's defense alert.

A pivotal moment arrived in the 53rd minute when Telstar were reduced to ten men. Cedric Hatenboer received a straight red card following a reckless challenge on Youri Regeer, with VAR upgrading what was initially considered a yellow card offense. The numerical disadvantage seemed to seal Telstar's fate.

Youri Baas appeared to confirm Ajax's victory in the 72nd minute, powering home a header from close range after Rayane Bounida's precise corner-kick delivery. The goal seemed to definitively settle the contest, but football's unpredictable nature was about to unfold dramatically.

In a stunning twist, Baas transformed from hero to villain just moments later. A deflection off his body sent the ball into his own net, gifting Telstar an unexpected lifeline and igniting hope among the home supporters. The stadium's atmosphere transformed instantly from resignation to electric anticipation.

With six minutes remaining, Danny Bakker completed a remarkable comeback narrative. Heading home from virtually point-blank range following Jeff Hardeveld's perfectly weighted cross, he reduced the deficit to 3-2 and suddenly made the impossible seem possible. The 711 Stadion erupted, sensing an unlikely point was within reach.

The final minutes were a frantic battle of desperation and determination. Telstar threw everything forward, while Ajax's players visibly wrestled with mounting anxiety. Rayane Bounida nearly restored the two-goal cushion in stoppage time, but Koeman produced another exceptional save to keep his side's hopes flickering.

Ultimately, Ajax held firm, securing a victory that maintains their European qualification aspirations. The result keeps them fifth with 26 points, though coach Francesco Farioli will undoubtedly have concerns about his team's ability to manage a seemingly comfortable lead.

Looking ahead, Telstar will host Excelsior on January 16 as they continue their battle to escape the relegation zone, while Ajax travel to face Go Ahead Eagles on January 17 seeking to build momentum and demonstrate greater defensive resilience.

This match served as a compelling reminder of football's inherent drama — where control can slip away in moments, and hope can emerge from the most unlikely circumstances.