Hajduk Split beat Ajax as Tolu Arokodare plays full UEFA Conference League opener

Tolu Arokodare played the full 90 minutes as Ajax began their UEFA Conference League campaign with a 2-1 defeat by Hajduk Split at Stadion Poljud on Thursday.

The Super Eagles striker had three attempts on goal and provided a physical presence throughout, but Ajax were unable to overcome a disciplined Hajduk defence despite having 57% possession.

The hosts took the lead in the 37th minute after Marin Soticek won the ball from Davy Klaassen in midfield. He then picked out Abdoulie Sanyang, who sent a low right-footed shot beyond the Ajax goalkeeper.

Klaassen quickly made amends after half-time, restoring parity with a low finish from Thilo Kehrer’s cross. The Ajax midfielder struck the ball into the roof of the net to make it 1-1.

However, the visitors’ equaliser lasted only two minutes.

Michele Sego capitalised on a misplaced backpass before delivering the ball to Soticek, who kept his composure to beat the recovering Ajax defence and put Hajduk back in front.

Arokodare led Ajax’s efforts to find another equaliser during the closing stages, driving his side forward as they sought to avoid defeat. Hajduk, though, maintained their defensive organisation to secure victory.

The result gave the Croatian league leaders their first win in the main stage of a major European competition in over 16 years.