ADO Den Haag delivered one of the most remarkable performances of the season, overpowering MVV Maastricht with a stunning 1-4 victory, sealing their position as strong contenders for the third-period title. The game, held on Sunday, captivated fans from the very first whistle, as ADO scored three astounding goals within just six minutes, sending shockwaves through the home team.
The match started at lightning speed. Daryl van Mieghem opened the scoring just 15 seconds after kick-off, capitalizing on defensive blunders from MVV. The quick succession of goals continued with Jari Vlak doubling the lead two minutes later, and Luka Reischl making it 0-3 merely three minutes after Vlak's strike. By the time the scoreboard displayed just six minutes, the outcome seemed all but decided.
MVV, who were eyeing the match as a chance to close the gap on the top playoff spot, suddenly found themselves on the back foot, facing overwhelming pressure from ADO. The bold aggression and swiftness of ADO’s play left the home side reeling. “It felt like it was over before it even began,” remarked one stunned observer from the stands.
After experiencing such a disastrous start, MVV aimed to regroup, but their attempts were thwarted time and again by ADO’s relentless offense. Only after 28 minutes did Vlak add to the tally again, placing the ball calmly beyond MVV’s goalkeeper, Romain Matthys, to make it 0-4. By then, the discontent on the MVV sidelines was audible, as frustrated fans loudly voiced their displeasure.
Despite the lopsided score, MVV eventually started creating opportunities. They finally managed to generate some threats near the end of the first half, but it was not until the second half when they found the back of the net. Notable threats included Robyn Esajas' powerful effort, which was stopped by ADO’s goalkeeper Kilian Nikiema. MVV's Simon Francis even saw his header denied, illustrating their desperation to spark some life back to the match.
The second half saw ADO, perhaps overly relaxed, struggle for momentum. MVV mounted pressure and challenged the ADO defense, even as the visitors played with ten men after Cameron Peupion received his marching orders for a dangerous tackle. A subsequent goal by Sven Braken for MVV, just minutes before the final whistle, reduced the score to 1-4, ensuring their fans had something to cheer about.
Reflecting on the match, van Mieghem said, “It was perfect start, and even though the red card was unnecessary, we left with great feelings.” He joined others, including debutant Sky Heesen, who beamed after the game, mentioning he planned to frame the match shirt. Such jubilance displayed the broad impact of the win for the ADO squad as it continues to push toward the peak of the table.
With this victory, ADO Den Haag not only demonstrated their offensive prowess but also sent a clear message to other teams vying for promotion. They currently stand level on points with second-placed Excelsior, with the goal difference securely favoring them.
Next week, ADO will host FC Den Bosch, where they will have the opportunity to solidify their standing and possibly secure their playoff spot. With confidence running high from such dominant performances, fans and players alike will be eager to see what the next fixture holds.