Ajax Vrouwen faced a disheartening defeat against PSV Vrouwen on March 22, 2025, suffering a 3-1 loss in a crucial match for the Azerion Women’s Eredivisie title. The encounter, held at PSV's home ground, saw Ajax initially equalize after falling behind but ultimately, they could not maintain their composure as PSV regained control to seize the top spot in the league.
From the opening whistle, the visitors from Amsterdam created early pressure. Bo van Egmond was particularly active, making a run past her defender and setting up Lily Yohannes for a shot from the edge of the penalty area, which was blocked. However, PSV's defensive efforts were challenged when Ajax's goalkeeper, Regina van Eijk, made a critical save, preventing a goal from Chimera Ripa.
Despite Ajax's bright start, it was PSV who broke the deadlock in the 28th minute. Renate Janssen took a free kick that curled into the net, giving PSV a 1-0 lead. Ajax managed to respond with attempts from Van Egmond and Danique Noordman before halftime, but they could not convert.
After the break, Ajax returned to the pitch refreshed and determined. They made three substitutions, including bringing on Danique Tolhoek, who proved to be a game-changer. In the 51st minute, following a clever pass from Lotte Keukelaar, Tolhoek equalized for Ajax, making it 1-1. At this point, it seemed like Ajax might turn the tide.
Yet, eight minutes later, the tide shifted again. PSV's Veerle Buurman scored with a header, restoring PSV's lead at 2-1. This goal seemed to demoralize the Ajax players, who struggled to recover.
PSV's star forward, Janssen, sealed the deal in the 75th minute, scoring her second goal of the match. A well-coordinated attack led to her shot that once again left van Eijk with no chance. With the score at 3-1, PSV had effectively snatched the top position in the league away from Ajax.
The loss was particularly painful for Ajax Vrouwen and their management, evident in coach Hesterine de Reus’s reaction post-game. The defeat means that Ajax now trails PSV by one point, with four matches remaining in the season, making each game critical for their title aspirations.
Ajax's lineup saw a mix of young talents and experienced players, featuring: Van Eijk; De Klonia, Kardinaal, Spitse, Van de Velde (46' Keijzer); Van Gool (76' Van der Veen), Yohannes (46' Van Hensbergen), Noordman; Keukelaar, Hoekstra (46' Tolhoek), Van Egmond (69' Jansen).
The match against PSV reflects both the excitement and the unpredictable nature of the league as the season heads towards its climax. With only four matches left and the championship hanging in the balance, the stakes have never been higher. Ajax needs to regroup quickly to contend for the title, demonstrating resilience in the upcoming games. As for PSV, their win marks a significant step forward in their campaign to claim the championship trophy this season.
