Football often reveals its most touching moments when genuine camaraderie shines through the competitive intensity of the pitch. On Saturday night, Ajax striker Tolu Arokodare delivered one such moment during his team’s 1-1 draw against NEC Nijmegen. After finding the back of the net in the first half, the Nigerian forward celebrated by paying tribute to injured teammate Kasper Dolberg. However, in an honest post-match interview, Arokodare admitted that the heartfelt gesture was not entirely his own brainchild.
Speaking to reporters after the final whistle, Arokodare revealed that the suggestion came directly from his international compatriot, Victor Osimhen. The star Nigerian forward had advised him to keep Dolberg in his thoughts and use the fixture as a platform to send a message of encouragement to the sidelined Danish striker.
“To be completely honest, it wasn’t my idea,” Arokodare explained frankly when questioned about his celebration. “Victor [Osimhen] actually spoke to me before the game. He reminded me of what Kasper is going through right now with his injury and told me that if I scored, I should dedicate the goal to him. Victor is like an older brother to many of us; he always thinks about everyone and looks out for the boys. When the ball went in, that conversation came straight to my mind, and I knew exactly what I had to do.”
The goal itself was a classic demonstration of Arokodare’s aerial prowess. During a tightly contested first half, the former Wolverhampton Wanderers attacker timed his jump to perfection inside the penalty box, rising highest to meet an inviting cross from Jort to nod Ajax into the lead. It was a well-crafted strike that gave his side a much-needed breakthrough, and Arokodare immediately used the spotlight to direct thoughts toward Dolberg, demonstrating the close bond within the squad.
Dolberg, who has faced an unfortunate spell on the treatment table following a recent injury setback, remains a crucial figure in the dressing room. Injuries can be an isolating and mentally demanding experience for elite athletes, making gestures of solidarity from teammates particularly meaningful. Osimhen’s guidance and Arokodare’s execution of the tribute underscored the empathy and shared respect that runs between professionals across club and international borders.
Despite the positive start and Arokodare’s clinical finish, Ajax were unable to secure all three points on the night. NEC Nijmegen fought back with determination in the second half, eventually leveling the scoreline to claim a share of the spoils. The 1-1 draw left mixed emotions in the Amsterdam camp, with players and staff frustrated at letting two points slip away after controlling significant portions of the game.
Nevertheless, Arokodare’s continuing contribution in the attacking third remains an encouraging sign for the club. Having adjusted to the expectations and tactical demands of his role, his sharpness in front of goal offers plenty of optimism for the weeks ahead. Paired with a strong sense of team unity and guidance from experienced international peers like Osimhen, Arokodare continues to grow into both a key performer and an exemplary teammate on and off the field.