In a crucial match for their European aspirations, Fortuna Sittard secured a vital 1-0 victory against NAC Breda on May 10, 2025, at their home ground. The win not only keeps Fortuna's hopes alive for a spot in the European play-offs but also propels them to ninth place in the Eredivisie standings.
Fortuna's triumph came at a pivotal moment, as NAC Breda had already confirmed their safety in the league following Willem II's defeat to Heracles Almelo just a day prior. With that result, NAC could no longer qualify for European football, allowing them to approach the match without the pressure of relegation looming over them.
Despite being safe, NAC coach Carl Hoefkens opted for a cautious approach, starting with an extra defender in Bojan Radulovic and leaving striker Sydney van Hooijdonk on the bench. This decision reflected a desire to maintain defensive solidity rather than chase an elusive victory.
Fortuna took the lead in the 30th minute, capitalizing on a critical mistake by NAC. Clint Leemans, who had been instrumental in the build-up, lost possession to Ryan Fosso. Fosso quickly set up Kaj Sierhuis, who was lurking just a meter from goal, allowing him to score with ease. This marked Sierhuis' first goal of the season, a significant moment considering he had been sidelined with a knee injury since February 2025.
"It feels great to be back on the scoresheet after such a long time," Sierhuis said after the match. "I just want to help the team as much as I can as we push for the play-offs." His enthusiasm reflects the team's collective ambition to secure a place in European competition.
As the match progressed, NAC began to press for an equalizer. Leemans, who was responsible for the error leading to the goal, nearly redeemed himself with a powerful shot that was saved by Fortuna's goalkeeper, Mattijs Branderhorst. The tension mounted as NAC's Leo Sauer appeared to have equalized shortly after halftime, but his goal was disallowed after a VAR review confirmed a handball during the build-up.
The drama continued in the final minutes when Sierhuis was brought down in the box, prompting the referee to initially award a penalty. However, after consulting VAR, the decision was overturned due to an offside call, much to the frustration of the Fortuna players and fans.
Despite the late-game excitement, NAC struggled to find the back of the net. A last-minute chance fell to Mitchell Dijks, who embarked on a dazzling solo run reminiscent of Lionel Messi. However, he failed to convert, leaving him still waiting for his first Eredivisie goal.
Looking ahead, Fortuna Sittard has two crucial matches remaining in the season, facing Almere City away and FC Utrecht at home. With just one point separating them from eighth-placed SC Heerenveen, every game counts as they aim for a play-off spot.
The atmosphere in Sittard was electric as fans celebrated the victory, knowing that the team is still in the hunt for European football. Fortuna's path to the play-offs now seems clearer, but they must maintain their momentum in the upcoming fixtures.
Meanwhile, the football community mourns the loss of Feyenoord legend Joop van Daele, who passed away at the age of 77. Van Daele was a celebrated figure in Dutch football and a key player in Feyenoord's history.
As the Eredivisie season winds down, the stakes are high, and the excitement is palpable. Fortuna Sittard's victory over NAC Breda is a testament to their determination and ambition as they strive for European glory.
