Thankfully nobody was hurt
There were worrying scenes ahead of Ajax’s clash against their fierce rivals Feyenoord on Sunday after one of the stands behind the goal caught fire.
The roaring flame could be seen behind the goal Ajax goalkeeper André Onana was defending, with the cause of the flames reportedly down to sections of the home crowd accidentally lighting banners on fire with flares.
As a result, kick-off in the derby known as De Klassieker was delayed from it’s original kick-off time of 1.30pm local time (12.30pm GMT) as clouds of thick, black smoke could be seen rising.
Players from both sides spoke to the referee about the plan of action going forward as stewards and safety officers worked together to control the blaze.
Thankfully the fire was eventually extinguished and as of yet, there were no reported injuries, allowing the game to go ahead as planned.
There were worrying scenes in the Johan Cruyff Arena during Ajax and Feyenoord's match after a fire broke out in a section of the stand behind one of the goals. pic.twitter.com/HwnyM8NQQ0
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) March 21, 2022
Ajax were able to control their emotions as they came from behind twice to beat their biggest rivals and strengthen their grip at the top of the Eredivise.
Luis Sinisterra gave the away side an early lead in the eighth minute before former West Ham United talisman Sebastien Haller equalised in the 24th minute.
Feyenoord restored their lead through Guss Til just four minutes later, however Dusan Tadic equalised before Brazilian winger Antony scored the winner four minutes from time.
Antony was sent off for Ajax in second-half stoppage time, but despite the brief one-man disadvantage, Ajax were able to hold on and secure the winner.
Ajax boss Erik ten Hag has been heavily linked with the vacant managerial role at Manchester United and has reported to have been in contact about taking over at Old Trafford in the summer.
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