Ajax advanced to the KNVB Cup round of 16, thanks to a decisive late goal from Chuba Akpom, who came off the bench to score in their second-round clash against Telstar on Thursday.
The Nigerian forward, introduced as a second-half substitute, ensured Ajax’s ambitions in the competition remained intact with his game-sealing strike, Footballrover reports.
The 29-year-old forward featured for just 33 minutes.
Akpom’s game-changing impact
After a cagey first half that saw both sides fail to produce any goal, Chuba was thrown into the game 12 minutes after the restart to replace Mika Godts, and he wasted no time in making his presence felt.
Just minutes after Daniele Rugani broke the deadlock in the 79th minute, Akpom doubled Ajax’s advantage with a clinical finish in the 86th minute.
The goal marked his seventh of the season across all competitions, adding to his impressive tally of four goals in the UEFA Europa League, two in the Eredivisie, and one in the KNVB Cup.
He also boasts one assist this term, bringing his total goal involvement to eight.
Ajax’s KNVB Cup drought set to end
The victory against Telstar was particularly significant for Ajax, who have not won the KNVB Cup since 2021.
Despite entering the game as clear favourites, the Amsterdam-based team faced a challenging first half, with both sides failing to find the net.
Akpom’s introduction brought the much-needed spark to break Telstar’s resistance and steer Ajax to victory.
Building momentum amid challenges
Ajax entered the match with renewed confidence following a 3-0 Eredivisie win over Almere City, which ended a disappointing run of one draw and two consecutive defeats.
Akpom’s late heroics not only secured the win but also reinforced the team’s determination to regain their form.
What’s next for Ajax and Akpom?
With their KNVB Cup journey still alive, Ajax now shift focus back to the Eredivisie, where they face Sparta Rotterdam in round 17.
Chuba Akpom, who’s battling with game time in the team, will be hoping to continue to find the back of the net with the little minutes he gets as Ajax aim to build on their recent successes and make strides in both domestic and European competitions.
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