Tolu Arokodare earns two Ajax nominations for October Goal of the Month

Tolu Arokodare has been shortlisted twice for Ajax Amsterdam’s October Goal of the Month award, leaving supporters to choose between two decisive finishes by the Nigeria striker.

Arokodare’s goals against Atalanta in the UEFA Conference League and AZ Alkmaar in the Eredivisie were both selected after he scored four times in six appearances during an impressive month.

The first nomination came for his late winner against Atalanta on October 22. With the match goalless and three minutes remaining, Arokodare brought down a long pass from Youri Baas, moved beyond a defender and placed his finish beyond the goalkeeper to break the deadlock.

His second contender was the only goal of Ajax Amsterdam’s meeting with AZ Alkmaar. Arokodare attacked Abdellah Ouazane’s cross in the ninth minute, rising above Mees de Wit to head the ball into the net and secure a narrow victory for his side.

The two nominated goals underline contrasting elements of Arokodare’s game. His finish against Atalanta reflected his composure and ability to create an opportunity for himself, while the goal against AZ showcased his strength in the air and his awareness inside the penalty area.

Arokodare faces competition from a number of Ajax teammates for the monthly award. Abdellah Ouazane is also nominated twice, while Davy Klaassen, Leo Salazar, Abdoulaye Camara and Naoufal Mouslim each appear on the shortlist.

The recognition follows Arokodare’s move to Ajax Amsterdam on a season-long loan in July. The agreement includes an option for the club to purchase the forward.

His double nomination gives him another chance to make an impression on Ajax supporters as he continues his campaign in Amsterdam. Regardless of which goal wins, both strikes have ensured that his performances in October remain prominent in the club’s monthly award discussion.

The nomination also reflects the contribution Arokodare has made since arriving in Dutch football. Although the two goals came in different circumstances, each had a direct influence on the result: the effort against Atalanta ended a stalemate late in the game, while his header against AZ Alkmaar delivered victory in the ninth minute.

With two of his own goals competing for the same prize, Arokodare has placed Ajax supporters in the unusual position of having to choose between separate examples of his attacking qualities.