Ajax debut delight as Wolves loanee Tolu Arokodare scores against FC Volendam

Ajax loanee Tolu Arokodare marked his first appearance for the Dutch club with a goal as they beat FC Volendam 3-1 in a pre-season friendly on Sunday.

The Super Eagles forward came off the bench during the second half and needed only 17 minutes to make an immediate impact for the Dutch giants.

Arokodare entered the game in the 71st minute at the Kras Stadion, replacing Marcos Leonardo. By then, Ajax had already established control of the match after Anton Gaaei opened the scoring before Marcos Leonardo added a second.

The Nigeria international completed the scoring in the 88th minute, finishing calmly from inside the penalty area after Gaaei’s cross created uncertainty in the FC Volendam defence.

The goal capped a promising first outing for Arokodare, who has joined Ajax from Wolverhampton Wanderers on a season-long loan. The agreement includes an option for Ajax to make the transfer permanent.

Arokodare’s arrival in Amsterdam followed an impressive spell with Racing Genk, after which he moved to Wolves. His first appearance for Ajax has now begun with a goal, giving the 25-year-old a positive start as he seeks to establish himself in the club’s attack.

Ajax were using the fixture to continue their preparations for the new campaign, and Arokodare’s late contribution added further encouragement to their 3-1 victory.

The striker reacted quickly when Gaaei’s delivery caused confusion among the FC Volendam defenders, before keeping his composure to finish and seal the result.

For Arokodare, the goal offered an early indication of the attacking threat he could provide during his loan spell. Having arrived after his time at Racing Genk and subsequent move to Wolverhampton Wanderers, he now has an opportunity to become an important attacking option for Ajax.

His debut could hardly have started better, with his first appearance ending in a goal and a convincing pre-season win for his new club.