In a thrilling kickoff to the Eredivisie season, Go Ahead Eagles battled back from adversity to secure a last-gasp 2-2 draw against Fortuna Sittard. Despite being reduced to ten men in the second half, the Eagles’ resilient defense and a stoppage-time equalizer from defender Gerrit Nauber ensured they left Fortuna’s home ground with a crucial point.
Fortuna Sittard’s New Frontline Impresses but Stumbles
Fortuna Sittard fielded two fresh attackers in their opening lineup, with Dimitrios Limnios arriving on loan from Panathinaikos starting on the right wing and ex-Wolves striker Paul Gladon leading the attack. Young midfielder Philip Brittijn, 21, made his debut after transferring from De Graafschap, while the defensive pairing featured Indonesian international Justin Hubner alongside Shawn Adewoye.
The hosts came out aggressively, pressing the Eagles relentlessly in the opening 45 minutes. Fortuna’s early dominance seemed promising, but an unfortunate own goal by Adewoye in the 29th minute handed Go Ahead Eagles an unexpected lead.
Go Ahead Eagles Show Resilience Despite Setbacks
Go Ahead Eagles, eager to bounce back after their recent Johan Cruyff Shield defeat, looked to start their Eredivisie campaign on a high note. They were without Danish talent Jakob Breum due to a minor injury but fielded Milan Smit as the main striker, supported by Victor Edvardsen.
The Eagles’ lead was short-lived as Brittijn capitalized on a cross from Gladon during stoppage time of the first half, leveling the score for Fortuna with their third clear chance.
Red Card Shifts Momentum
The second half took a dramatic turn when Calvin Twigt of Go Ahead Eagles received a straight red card following a VAR review of a harsh tackle on Kristoffer Peterson. Reduced to ten men, the Eagles struggled to maintain their composure, inviting intense pressure from the hosts.
Fortuna’s Ryan Fosso came close to breaking the deadlock, but the visitors’ defense held firm despite the numerical disadvantage.
Late Equalizer Caps Intense Battle
Fortuna eventually took the lead late in the game through substitute Luka Tunjic, who finished off a precise cross from Makan Aiko, beating goalkeeper Jari De Busser. However, the Eagles refused to go down quietly. In the dying moments of stoppage time, center-back Gerrit Nauber headed home a crucial equalizer, stunning the home crowd and securing a dramatic 2-2 finish.
The Eredivisie season opener delivered high drama as Go Ahead Eagles showcased grit and determination to overcome a red card and snatch a valuable point on the road. Fortuna Sittard will rue missed opportunities but can take heart from their attacking threat in front of home fans.
