FC Volendam is on the verge of a remarkable comeback to the Eredivisie, showcasing an impressive season under the leadership of coach Rick Kruys and star player Henk Veerman. After suffering relegation as the seventeenth team in the Eredivisie during the 2023/2024 season, the club has turned the tide and is poised for promotion with just five matches remaining in the Keuken Kampioen Divisie.
As the season nears its conclusion, FC Volendam has built a commanding eleven-point lead over their closest competitor, Excelsior. The team has capitalized on their strong performances, and with the right results in the coming weeks, they could secure their return to the top flight of Dutch football. The excitement is palpable, especially with the pivotal match against Excelsior scheduled for Sunday, April 20, 2025, where a victory could clinch the championship title.
In recent weeks, Volendam has not only focused on their own matches but has also kept a close eye on the results of their rivals, including ADO Den Haag, FC Dordrecht, SC Cambuur, and De Graafschap. ADO Den Haag recently missed a crucial opportunity to narrow the gap, settling for a 1-1 draw against Jong FC Utrecht, which allowed Volendam to maintain their significant lead.
With 33 matches already played, the team is gearing up for their final stretch, with five games left on the schedule. The atmosphere around the club is electric, and fans are eagerly anticipating a big celebration on May 11, 2025, should Volendam secure promotion. The club has planned a grand party along the Volendamse dijk, which promises to be a memorable occasion for supporters.
The upcoming matches are crucial, not just for the title but also for the pride of the club. After facing Excelsior, Volendam will take on Roda JC on May 2 and again on May 9, where they could potentially seal their fate. The team’s focus remains sharp, and they are determined to finish strong.
Coach Rick Kruys expressed his confidence in the squad, stating, "We have worked hard all season, and the players have shown incredible resilience. We are close, but we need to stay focused and take it one game at a time." Henk Veerman, a key player for the team, echoed his coach’s sentiments, saying, "The support from our fans has been amazing, and we want to give them something to celebrate. We can almost taste it!"
The potential for promotion has not only energized the players but has also sparked excitement among the fanbase. The supporters are rallying behind the team, hoping to witness a return to the Eredivisie after just one season in the second tier. This season has been a rollercoaster for Volendam, but the prospect of lifting the championship trophy is within reach.
As the matches approach, the team is also preparing for the logistical aspects of a potential promotion celebration. The decision to play their away matches against Jong AZ and Jong FC Utrecht in the respective stadiums of AZ and FC Utrecht is a strategic move aimed at accommodating more fans. This decision reflects the club's commitment to ensuring that their supporters can be part of this historic moment.
With the championship title and promotion on the line, FC Volendam is ready to make their mark. The players understand the significance of these final matches and are prepared to give their all. The excitement is building, and fans are hopeful that they will soon be celebrating their team's return to the Eredivisie.
In conclusion, FC Volendam stands at the threshold of a glorious return to the top tier of Dutch football. With a solid lead in the standings and key matches on the horizon, the team is focused on sealing the deal. The support from fans and the determination of the players create an atmosphere charged with anticipation. Will FC Volendam secure their spot in the Eredivisie? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: the journey has been thrilling, and the best is yet to come.
