The Super Eagles striker led Ajax’s attack for the full game, but Hajduk’s counter attacks and two Ajax errors decided the opener in Split.
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Super Eagles striker Tolu Arokodare played all 90 minutes as Ajax lost 2-1 at Hajduk Split in their UEFA Conference League opener at Stadion Poljud on Thursday. As reported by FootballInNigeria.com.ng, Ajax had most of the ball but couldn’t turn possession into goals.
The Dutch side held 57 per cent possession, and Arokodare was a constant physical threat in attack. He had three shots across the game, according to match data.
He also missed a big first half chance. Arokodare won a duel with Hajduk defender Dennis Hadžikadunić and was ready to shoot, but the centre-back sprinted back to block the attempt.
Errors Cost Ajax
Hajduk scored first in the 37th minute. A fast counter attack saw Marin Šotiček find Abdoulie Sanyang, who finished low past the keeper.
Ajax equalised in the 53rd minute through captain Davy Klaassen, who controlled a Thilo Kehrer cross and finished into the roof of the net.
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Hajduk responded within two minutes. Another Ajax error in possession let Michele Šego square the ball to Šotiček, who made it 2-1 in the 56th minute.
A Famous Night In Split
Ajax pushed for an equaliser, with Arokodare leading the late charge, but Hajduk held firm. It was a rare big European night at Poljud, and the home fans made it loud.
The win was Hajduk’s first in the main stage of a major European competition in more than 16 years. The match was also halted for 12 minutes because of flares lit by the home supporters, the Torcida.
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What It Means For Arokodare
Arokodare kept his place in the starting lineup, which suggests Ajax manager Michel Sánchez still trusts him up front.
Is the striker getting the service he needs? The match data suggests he is involved, but he needs a goal to match the effort. Ajax will want sharper finishing, and Arokodare will want to turn his best chance into a goal next time.
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Ajax face Atalanta in the Conference League on October 22. Arokodare’s goal will have to wait, but the chances are coming.
📌 Did You Know?
- Former Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen started in goal for Ajax.
- Ajax are four-time European champions.
- Hajduk have now never lost to Ajax at Poljud in five meetings.
- Nineteen year old Jofre Torrents made his first start for Ajax.
- Aaron Bouwman returned to the Ajax lineup after the injury he picked up in the game against PSV.
