Thijmen Blokzijl dramatically altered the Eredivisie title race by securing a 2-2 draw for Groningen against Ajax with a last-minute equaliser.
This late goal, scored in the 99th minute at Euroborg, dashed Ajax’s hopes of victory. Earlier, Steven Berghuis had set up Wout Weghorst to give Ajax a 2-1 lead with just 22 minutes left.
PSV Eindhoven capitalised on Ajax’s slip-up by defeating Heracles 4-1 simultaneously. Malik Tillman and Ismael Saibari were instrumental in PSV’s triumph at Philips Stadion. Tillman scored first and assisted Saibari twice, while he also netted another goal before half-time. Mario Engels scored a late consolation for Heracles.
PSV’s attacking strength has been evident throughout the season. They became the first team since Ajax (1981-1984) to score over 100 goals in consecutive Eredivisie seasons. This achievement marks a historic first for PSV, highlighting their offensive capabilities this campaign.
Ajax’s hopes were further dented when Luciano Valente was sent off for Groningen after a foul on Jordan Henderson in the 93rd minute. Despite being down to ten men, Groningen managed to equalise, dealing a significant blow to Ajax’s title aspirations.
Steven Berghuis marked his 350th Eredivisie appearance with his tenth assist of the season against Groningen. Only Dusan Tadic has provided more assists against a single opponent this century, with twelve against Heerenveen. Berghuis’ cross seemed decisive until Blokzijl’s late intervention.
The draw saw Ajax drop to second place, trailing PSV by one point with one game remaining. PSV now know that a win against Sparta Rotterdam next Sunday will secure them the league title, regardless of Ajax’s result against Twente.
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Ajax accumulated only 0.88 expected goals compared to Groningen’s 1.80 during their match, indicating Groningen’s stronger performance despite the final scoreline. Meanwhile, PSV have outscored Ajax by 35 goals this season, which could be crucial if goal difference becomes decisive.
With six players scoring ten or more goals each this season, PSV have set another record in Eredivisie history. This collective effort underscores their dominance and could be pivotal as they aim for top-flight glory.