Ajax’s Eredivisie title hopes took a dramatic hit on May 14, 2025, as they conceded a 99th-minute equalizer against FC Groningen in a 2-2 draw that descended into chaos.
The late goal triggered a post-match brawl between players and staff from both sides at the Johan Cruyff Arena, with footage of the incident quickly circulating on social media. What was already a frustrating evening for Ajax turned into a nightmare, as they not only dropped vital points but also saw their composure disintegrate in front of a stunned home crowd.
The match began with Ajax showing early control, taking the lead in the 27th minute through Anton Gaaei. Groningen responded after the break with a well-placed equalizer by Thom van Bergen in the 52nd minute, but Ajax struck back via Wout Weghorst in the 68th minute to restore their advantage. The Amsterdam side looked set to secure the win until a dramatic finale saw Groningen reduced to 10 men after Luciano Valente was sent off in stoppage time. Against the odds, Thijmen Blokzijl found the net deep into injury time, sealing a shock draw.
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Ajax will have to count on PSV dropping points in order to win league title
What followed was even more shocking. Immediately after the final whistle, tensions boiled over, and players from both teams clashed on the pitch in a mass confrontation. Video clips widely shared online showed pushing, shoving, and heated verbal exchanges, with coaches and officials rushing in to separate the two sides. The Dutch FA is expected to review the footage and could hand out disciplinary actions to individuals involved in the altercation.
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The draw leaves Ajax in second place, one point behind PSV Eindhoven, who completed a stunning 10-point swing in the standings in recent weeks. With just one match remaining, Ajax now find themselves needing to beat FC Twente and hope PSV drop points against Sparta Rotterdam to reclaim the Eredivisie crown. What once looked like a comfortable march to the title has unravelled into a high-pressure, last-day battle.