Arokodare Scores on Ajax Debut in 3-1 Pre-Season Victory Over FC Volendam

Posted : 03 August 2026

Super Eagles striker Tolu Arokodare enjoyed a dream debut for Ajax after finding the net in the club's 3-1 pre-season victory over FC Volendam on Sunday.

The Nigerian forward recently joined the Eredivisie champions on a season-long loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers. The agreement also includes an option for Ajax to make the move permanent at the end of the campaign.

Arokodare started the game on the bench before coming on in the 71st minute as Ajax continued their preparations for the 2026-27 season at the Kras Stadion. He replaced Brazilian forward Marcos Leonardo, who had extended Ajax's lead after defender Anton Gaaei opened the scoring earlier in the contest.

The 25-year-old needed only 17 minutes to make his mark. In the 88th minute, Gaaei delivered a dangerous cross into the penalty area that created confusion in the FC Volendam defence. Arokodare reacted quickest to the loose ball and calmly slotted home to seal a comfortable 3-1 win for the Amsterdam club.

The goal gave the Nigerian an ideal start to his Ajax career and highlighted the qualities that convinced the Dutch side to pursue his signature during the summer transfer window. His movement inside the box and composed finish offered an early glimpse of the attacking threat he could provide this season.

Arokodare arrives at Ajax after continuing his rise in European football over the past few years. The striker impressed during his time at Belgian side Racing Genk, where his goals and overall performances earned him a move to the Premier League with Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Seeking regular playing time, the Nigerian accepted the opportunity to join Ajax on loan, with the Dutch club viewing him as an important addition to strengthen their attacking options ahead of a busy domestic and European campaign.

Ajax are using their pre-season fixtures to build momentum before the start of the Eredivisie season, and Arokodare's immediate impact will encourage head coach John Heitinga as he finalises his preferred attacking lineup.

The former Flying Eagles forward will now hope to carry his impressive debut form into the competitive season as he aims to establish himself as a regular starter. A strong campaign in Amsterdam could also boost his chances of becoming a more prominent figure in the Super Eagles setup ahead of Nigeria's upcoming international fixtures.

Arokodare Scores on Ajax Debut in 3-1 Pre-Season Victory Over FC Volendam

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