Ajax Amsterdam wrapped up the year with a commanding 0-2 victory over Sparta Rotterdam on December 22, 2024, securing three important points as they continue their pursuit of Eredivisie leaders PSV. The match, held at Het Kasteel, ended positively for the visitors, who showcased resilience and determination against their lower-ranked opponents.
Initially, the match appeared to be heading for a dull and uneventful finish, with both teams struggling to create significant chances during the first half. Ajax made the match difficult for themselves, exhibiting sluggishness and little creativity against a well-organized Sparta side, who were desperately seeking points to climb out of the relegation zone.
Sparta's coach, Maurice Steijn—facing his former employers—expressed no bitterness about his previous dismissal from Ajax, stating, "I am not a bitter man." He saw his team putting forth considerable effort, especially early on when they managed to contain Ajax. Ajax’s strategy seemed ineffective, resorting to long balls, and lacked the fluidity expected from a team of their stature.
Nevertheless, the match did not produce significant scoring chances until after the break. Notably, Ajax's Kenneth Taylor, who would later score the opener, missed the initial golden opportunity after the visitors began to find their rhythm but faced strong resistance from Sparta's goalkeeper Nick Olij.
The breakthrough finally came at the 77th minute when Ajax was awarded a penalty after Jorrel Hato was brought down by Said Bakari. Taylor stepped up to take the penalty and calmly converted it, sending Olij the wrong way. This was Taylor's moment to shine, establishing Ajax's lead and setting the tone for the remainder of the match.
With Sparta demoralized following the goal, Ajax seized control of the game, and Bertrand Traoré secured the win with just minutes to spare. His stunning strike from just outside the penalty area capped off the match, showcasing the skill and precision of the Ajax forward.
Thanks to this victory, Ajax heads confidently toward the winter break, positioned second on the league table, six points behind PSV, who beat Feyenoord later on the same day. Meanwhile, Sparta's situation grows precarious as they head to the winter break languishing at sixteenth place, needing to focus on avoiding relegation.
The match ended with Ajax feeling relieved after what had been described as lackluster but fundamentally effective football, allowing them to exit 2024 positively. Players and coaches emphasized the importance of resilience as they prepare to resume their pursuit of the league title next year. Ajax will resume action on January 11, 2025, as they take on Heracles Almelo, aiming to close the gap on PSV.
