Super Eagles striker rescues club from defeat

According to a report by Goal.com on Saturday, October 10, 2026, Nigerian international Tolu Arokodare delivered an impressive performance for Ajax, finding the back of the net as the Dutch giants settled for a 1-1 draw against NEC Nijmegen in their Eredivisie encounter at the Johan Cruyff ArenA.

The Super Eagles forward made an important contribution in the opening stages of the contest, producing a remarkable headed finish that initially put the Amsterdam-based club ahead.

Arokodare demonstrated his aerial ability when he connected with a delivery from Jorthy Mokio. Although the cross appeared difficult to reach, the Nigerian attacker stretched brilliantly to direct a powerful header beyond NEC goalkeeper Gonzalo Crettaz.

Following his goal, the striker dedicated his celebration to injured teammate Kasper Dolberg by displaying the Danish international’s shirt. Dolberg is expected to miss the remainder of the campaign after suffering a serious cruciate ligament injury.

However, Ajax were unable to protect their advantage as the visitors responded through an opportunity from the penalty spot.

Mokio, who had earlier provided the assist for Arokodare’s goal, committed a foul on Noë Lebreton inside the penalty area, leaving the referee with little choice but to award NEC a penalty.

Experienced midfielder Tjaronn Chery stepped forward and successfully converted the spot-kick, bringing the visitors back into the contest.

Ajax attempted to regain their lead before halftime, creating several promising attacking opportunities. Julian Brandt combined effectively with Oscar Gloukh, while Mokio nearly made amends for his earlier mistake when his long-range attempt struck the crossbar.

The second half proved challenging for the home side as NEC grew increasingly confident and threatened to take the lead.

Chery briefly appeared to have completed a remarkable turnaround for the visitors after finding the net again, but his effort was disallowed following an offside decision.

Ajax manager Míchel responded by making changes to his attacking lineup, introducing fresh players, including Simon Adingra, who made his debut appearance.

Despite the substitutions, Ajax continued to struggle with converting their attacking opportunities into goals.

Marcos Leonardo failed to hit the target with a promising attempt, while Brandt also sent an effort narrowly over the crossbar.

Youngster Abdellah Ouazane threatened the NEC defence during the closing stages, but goalkeeper Crettaz produced an important save to prevent the hosts from restoring their advantage.

Adingra also had an opportunity to influence the outcome, although neither team managed to produce the decisive goal before the final whistle.

The disappointing result means Ajax remain five points behind league leaders Feyenoord, increasing the pressure on the Amsterdam club in their pursuit of the Eredivisie title.

Meanwhile, Arokodare will take encouragement from his individual contribution despite his team’s inability to secure maximum points.

The Super Eagles striker once again demonstrated his effectiveness in front of goal, with his impressive header proving crucial in helping Ajax avoid defeat on home soil.

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