Ajax tightened their hold on the Eredivisie title race after securing a 2-0 victory against PSV in Eindhoven, extending their lead at the top to nine points.
The much-anticipated clash on Sunday was billed as the biggest game of the season, with first-placed Ajax facing their closest challengers, PSV, in a battle that could have reignited the title race.
Ajax came into the match six points ahead, having dropped points in a home draw against AZ before the international break. PSV, knowing a win would cut the deficit to just three points, had everything to play for.
However, PSV’s preparations were disrupted by unexpected challenges. Striker Lucas Perez was ruled out due to a tuberculosis infection, leaving Luuk de Jong as the only recognized striker in the squad.
Midfielder Ismael Saibari was restored to the lineup after missing the Arsenal trip for disciplinary reasons, while American prospect Malik Tillman returned to the bench following a lengthy 2.5-month recovery from an ankle injury.
On the Ajax side, manager Francesco Farioli had to adjust his starting XI. Lucas Rosa was drafted in at right-back due to Anton Gaaei’s suspension following his red card against AZ.
In midfield, Davy Klaassen got the nod over Kian Fitz-Jim, while Steven Berghuis replaced Bertrand Traore on the right wing.
The game began with a cautious tempo, as both teams struggled to break through. The first 15 minutes produced only one clear opportunity per side, Kenneth Taylor for Ajax and Ismael Saibari for PSV—both failing to convert their chances inside the box.
Farioli’s Ajax, widely praised for their resilience, stuck to a disciplined defensive approach. Their strategy relied on quick transitions rather than sustained possession, frequently opting for long balls forward rather than intricate build-up play.
As the game neared the half-hour mark, PSV ramped up their attacking pressure but were met with a solid defensive wall from the visitors
Despite their efforts, Ajax capitalized on the first real moment of brilliance.
Davy Klaassen, living up to his reputation, turned sharply and slotted home the opener, silencing the home crowd.
The goal marked a personal milestone for Klaassen, his 82nd in the Eredivisie, cementing his status as Ajax’s second-highest goalscorer of the century—only behind Klaas-Jan Huntelaar, who sits at 121.
With the win, Ajax tightened their grip on the league, leaving PSV with a steep uphill battle in the title race.
