Ajax Suffers Shock Defeat to USV Hercules in Dutch Cup
In a stunning upset, Ajax was defeated 3-2 by amateurs USV Hercules in the second round of the Dutch Cup. This loss marks one of the biggest shocks in the history of the club.
Tim Pieters Leads Hercules to Victory
Tim Pieters played a pivotal role in Hercules’ victory, scoring two goals to give his team a 2-0 lead against Ajax. It was a remarkable performance by the amateur side, considering Ajax’s record of winning the competition 20 times.
Late Goals Bring Ajax Back
Brian Brobbey and Chuba Akpom came to Ajax’s rescue in the last seven minutes of the match, scoring goals to draw the visitors level. It seemed like Ajax might salvage a draw and force extra time.
Mats Grotenbreg Secures Historic Win
However, Mats Grotenbreg had other plans. In the third minute of stoppage time, he scored the winning goal for Hercules, securing a famous victory over Ajax.
Absence of Coach Van ‘t Schip
Ajax coach John van ‘t Schip was unable to attend the game as he was in Australia for his son’s wedding. His absence may have had an impact on the team’s performance.
This defeat is a first for Ajax in the Dutch Cup, as they have never lost to an amateur club before. Currently sitting fifth in the Eredivisie, Ajax is 23 points behind league leaders PSV Eindhoven.