In the final match of the 2024/2025 season, FC Eindhoven secured a narrow victory over Roda JC Kerkrade, winning 1-0 at the Parkstad Limburg Stadion. The match featured a tense second half, highlighted by a decisive goal from Joey Sleegers in the 69th minute, ensuring that the Blauwwitten ended the season on a high note.
FC Eindhoven came out strong in the opening minutes, with Tibo Persyn testing Roda's goalkeeper Justin Treichel early on. The sixth-minute attempt was easily saved, setting the tone for an evenly matched first half. Just a minute later, Roda JC responded with Joshua Schwirten firing a shot into the side netting, signaling their intent to attack.
As the first half progressed, both teams struggled to convert their chances. FC Eindhoven's Joey Sleegers had a powerful shot saved by Treichel around the 15-minute mark, while Roda JC's Jorn Brondeel made crucial saves to deny Schwirten and maintain the scoreline. The match remained goalless at halftime, with both teams creating opportunities but failing to capitalize.
After the break, FC Eindhoven appeared rejuvenated and pressed for the opening goal. In the 55th minute, Sven Blummel's shot went just wide, and Roda JC soon followed with a near miss of their own. As the tension mounted, Ryan Leijten struck the post, and Zalán Vancsa rattled the crossbar shortly after, leaving the home fans frustrated.
Then, in a moment of brilliance, FC Eindhoven took the lead. Boris van Schuppen delivered a perfectly timed pass to Joey Sleegers, who made no mistake in slotting the ball past Treichel, giving the visitors a 1-0 advantage. This goal was a result of a defensive lapse from Roda JC, showcasing Sleegers' sharp instincts and clinical finishing.
In the closing stages, Roda JC fought valiantly to equalize, with Vancsa coming close again, but the FC Eindhoven defense held firm. The match concluded with a score of 1-0, leaving Roda JC to reflect on a disappointing season, finishing in twelfth place.
Despite the loss, the match had its moments, including the applause for Saydou Bangura's entrance, a brief highlight in an otherwise frustrating campaign for Roda JC. The defeat marked another disappointment for the home supporters, who had hoped for a better end to the season.
As the season wraps up, FC Eindhoven expressed gratitude to their supporters for their unwavering support throughout the year, both at home and away. The victory not only capped off the season on a positive note but also set the stage for preparations for the upcoming season.
In summary, FC Eindhoven's performance showcased their resilience and ability to seize crucial moments, while Roda JC will need to regroup and rebuild ahead of next season.
