Ajax surrender two‑goal lead as Heerenveen fight back for 2‑2 draw

Ajax dropped their first points of the Eredivisie season after a lethargic performance allowed Heerenveen to battle back for a 2‑2 draw in Amsterdam. Michel Sanchez rotated heavily following the midweek draw at Shelbourne, restoring Marc ter Stegen and handing 17‑year‑old Abdellah Ouazane a start on the left. Ajax struck early when Aaron Bouwman’s effort hit the post and rebounded off goalkeeper Bernt Klaverboer for an own goal. Ouazane later doubled the lead with a superb curling strike from distance.

Ter Stegen produced several strong saves, but Heerenveen pulled one back before halftime as Jacob Trenskow punished Kasper Dolberg’s turnover with a powerful finish. Ajax created chances after the break but failed to convert, leaving the door open for a late equaliser. Maxence Rivera capitalised on loose defending, smashing in via the crossbar. Marcos Leonardo threatened in stoppage time, but Ajax’s wastefulness proved costly ahead of their Conference League clash with Sion.