Did Excelsior Deserve a Penalty Against Ajax? 'Left
September 26, 2026 · Ana Castro
Ajax dropped important points against Excelsior, with a controversial penalty moment in the final stages at the center of attention. Irakli Yegoian claimed for a penalty after a high tackle from Youri Baas, but the referee did not respond.
Did Excelsior Deserve a Penalty Against Ajax? 'Left
According to Vi.
Background
Irakli Yegoian's performance in the match against Ajax has drawn attention, particularly due to his penalty claim. As a key player for Excelsior, his ability to influence games will be crucial as the team navigates the challenges of the Eredivisie season. Yegoian's frustration reflects the competitive nature of Eredivisie football, where every point counts.
Why this matters
The controversial no-call on Irakli Yegoian's penalty claim against Ajax highlights ongoing discussions about officiating standards in Eredivisie football. Such incidents can significantly impact a team's season, especially for Excelsior, who were seeking crucial points against a top club. The debate around VAR's effectiveness continues to grow, with many fans and analysts questioning its role in ensuring fair play.
Key Takeaways
- Did Excelsior Deserve a Penalty Against Ajax? 'Left.
- Ajax dropped important points against Excelsior, with a controversial penalty moment in the final stages at the center of attention.
- Irakli Yegoian remains central to Ajax's plans.
In the ESPN studio, former professional player and amateur referee Danny Koevermans criticized the lack of VAR intervention. "You might as well abolish the VAR," he remarked. "Ajax got away with this one. Baas kicked him in the face, even though he did touch the ball a little bit. Earlier this season, we gave Joey Veerman a red card for a similar incident in the Johan Cruijff Shield against AZ." Koevermans maintained a strong stance against the VAR, insisting that the referee's decisions should stand without technological interference. "I think the VAR should have acted here. No matter how unfortunate it is for Ajax, I believe this was a penalty."
Despite Koevermans' strong assertion, not everyone agreed at the discussion table. Bram van Polen voiced his reservations, saying, "I had my doubts. It's quite harsh, but I can live with the fact that he did not give the penalty." This differing opinion highlights the ongoing debate surrounding VAR decisions and their impact on the game.
As Ajax looks to regroup after this draw, the decision not to award a penalty will likely linger in the minds of both the players and fans, raising questions about officiating standards and the use of technology in football.
What happens next
Following the match, Excelsior will likely focus on regrouping and preparing for their next Eredivisie fixture, aiming to build on their performance against Ajax. Meanwhile, Ajax will need to address their defensive lapses and ensure they capitalize on scoring opportunities in upcoming matches. The fallout from this incident may also prompt discussions within the league about the consistency of officiating and the use of VAR in future games.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in the match between Ajax and Excelsior?
Ajax faced a disappointing draw against Excelsior, missing out on vital points in their Eredivisie campaign.
Was there a controversial moment involving Irakli Yegoian?
Yes, Irakli Yegoian was allegedly struck in the face by Ajax's Youri Baas, leading to debate over whether a penalty should have been awarded.
Did the referee award a penalty for the incident involving Yegoian?
No, the referee, Jannick van der Laan, chose not to award a penalty, and the VAR did not intervene.
What did Irakli Yegoian say about the incident?
Yegoian expressed his frustration, stating he received a kick to the face and believed it was a clear penalty.
What was the reaction of analysts regarding the VAR decision?
Former player Danny Koevermans criticized the lack of VAR intervention, arguing that Ajax got away with the incident and that it should have been reviewed.
