AFC Ajax were held to a frustrating 2-2 draw by a resilient Excelsior SBV side in their Eredivisie clash at the Johan Cruyff Arena on September 20, 2026. The home side twice led but were pegged back, dropping two valuable points in the title race.

Match Overview

Ajax started brightly and took the lead in the 12th minute through a trademark flowing move, finished off by their winger. Excelsior responded well, equalising in the 28th minute with a well-worked set-piece. Ajax regained the lead just before half-time when their striker converted a penalty after a foul in the box.

The second half saw Ajax dominate possession but fail to kill the game. Excelsior defended in numbers and hit back on the counter, equalising in the 74th minute with a low shot from outside the area. Despite late pressure, Ajax could not find a winner.

Key Moments

• 12' – Ajax goal: A slick passing move ends with a close-range finish.
• 28' – Excelsior equaliser: A corner is headed in at the near post.
• 43' – Ajax penalty: Converted confidently to restore the lead.
• 74' – Excelsior equaliser: A counter-attack ends with a shot into the bottom corner.

Tactical Story

Ajax employed their usual 4-3-3, looking to overload the flanks, but Excelsior's compact 5-4-1 frustrated them. The visitors sat deep and used quick transitions to create chances. Ajax's lack of a clinical edge in the final third proved costly, and their manager's late substitutions failed to break the deadlock.

Standout Players

Ajax's playmaker was at the heart of most attacks, while their striker scored and won the penalty. Excelsior's goalkeeper was excellent, making several key saves, and their goalscorer was a constant threat on the break.

Table Impact

The draw leaves Ajax playing catch-up in the Eredivisie title race, while Excelsior will see it as a valuable point against one of the league's giants. Ajax must now regroup for their next fixture to keep pace with the leaders.