FC Volendam secured a thrilling 3-1 comeback victory against VVV-Venlo at Stade De Koel, maintaining their position at the top of the Keuken Kampioen Divisie. The clash, filled with high drama, saw VVV-Venlo take the lead late in the match but Volendam's grit and determination turned the tide, reinforcing their title aspirations.
The match kicked off with both teams eager to assert themselves. FC Volendam aimed to capitalize on their strong position as league leaders, but it was VVV-Venlo who came close first. Just three minutes after the whistle, Jamie Jacobs set up Robert Mühren with a clever pass, but Mühren's attempt was ruled offside, thwarting the early goal celebration.
Despite the missed opportunity, the first half saw both teams struggle to break the deadlock. VVV-Venlo's Layee Kromah had a splendid opportunity to score, racing down the wing and delivering a perfect cross, but his teammate Lasse Wehmeyer narrowly missed connecting with the ball to convert.
FC Volendam faced another setback when veteran Vurnon Anita had to leave the pitch due to injury, making way for Nordin Bukala. The visitors held strong until halftime, but the opening 45 minutes concluded with the score still at 0-0, prompting frustration among the players and supporters.
Things heated up after the intermission, with VVV-Venlo taking control. They struck first when Bjorn van Zijl found the back of the net in the 77th minute, converting effectively after assists from Navarone Foor. The home supporters erupted as their team secured the lead.
Yet the joy was short-lived for VVV-Venlo. Just three minutes after their goal, FC Volendam responded with poise. Xavier Mbuyamba, finding himself open at the far post, capitalized on Brandley Kuwas's assist to equalize. There was no mistake this time, as Mbuyamba's shot hit the back of the net, igniting hope for the away fans.
With five minutes left on the clock, FC Volendam pressed for the win. It was Milan de Haan who secured the advantage with a stunning long-range effort, firing home from outside the box, leaving the VVV-Venlo goalkeeper Zidane Taylan no chance to react. Compliments to de Haan's pinpoint accuracy, the score moved to 2-1.
To add to VVV-Venlo’s woes, they were reduced to ten men when Emmanuel Gyamfi received his second yellow card late in the game, effectively sealing their fate. FC Volendam seized the opportunity, and Mühren, making himself available, scored once more as the referee indicated extra time minutes, resulting in the final score of 3-1.
This victory marks not only another three points for FC Volendam but also extends their lead at the top of the table to six points over Excelsior, who won their fixture against Telstar the same weekend. The win continues to stake their claim for promotion to the Eredivisie, demonstrating their title credentials as they prepare for their upcoming home match against Helmond Sport.