In a thrilling culmination to the season, Go Ahead Eagles coach Paul Simonis could hardly contain his joy after his team clinched the cup final on April 21, 2025. The victory marked a significant milestone in Simonis's first season at the helm, and he described the day as "the most special day of my life."
Simonis, reflecting on the match, acknowledged that AZ was slightly better and more direct throughout the game. "Today we were a few times very lucky, and I felt AZ was just a bit better. We were nervous, certainly. They were more into it and were more direct, dangerous in the counter-attack, which they did very well," he said during an interview with ESPN.
The decisive moment came in the dying seconds of regular time when Go Ahead Eagles secured their win with a penalty, a dramatic twist that Simonis admitted was unexpected. "We were dead and buried," he remarked, recalling a previous encounter with AZ where his team had been down 2-0 before turning the tide by bringing in three strikers. "We trained for that, and we did it against AZ when we were 2-0 down. We decided to play with three strikers because they often defend with four. That ultimately paid off very well."
Star player Jari De Busser was instrumental in the victory, making crucial saves that helped secure the win for Go Ahead Eagles. Simonis praised his performance, calling him a "kanjer" (a champ) and noting, "Unbelievable saves, really fantastic." De Busser's heroics were complemented by the leadership of captain Mats Deijl, who Simonis described as an all-rounder. "He can talk, run, and take penalties. He was always in the circles saying they needed to stay calm and listen to the coach," Simonis explained.
As the celebrations erupted, Simonis took a moment to express his gratitude to the fans who supported the team throughout the season. "This is the most special day in my life. Together, with the public, it was grand. They truly deserved this," he said, visibly moved as he addressed the traveling fans.
The victory not only signifies a personal achievement for Simonis but also marks a historic moment for Go Ahead Eagles in the KNVB Cup. The team has shown resilience and determination throughout the tournament, and this win is a testament to their hard work and commitment.
Fans are already buzzing about what this victory means for the future of the club. With Simonis at the helm, there is a renewed sense of hope and excitement surrounding Go Ahead Eagles. The team has proven they can compete at the highest level, and with players like De Busser and Deijl leading the charge, the sky's the limit.
As the dust settles on this momentous day, Simonis's words resonate: "This is the crown on this season." It's a fitting description for a team that has battled through challenges and emerged victorious, leaving a lasting mark on their club's history.
Looking ahead, Go Ahead Eagles will aim to build on this success in the upcoming seasons. The foundation laid by Simonis and his squad could pave the way for more achievements, as they look to establish themselves as a formidable force in Dutch football.
In conclusion, the cup final victory is not just a trophy for Go Ahead Eagles; it is a symbol of their journey and a celebration of their community. As the team revels in their triumph, fans are left to wonder: what will the future hold for this ambitious club?
