Nigerian forward Chuba Akpom was a one-man wrecking crew on Sunday, powering Ajax to a convincing 4-1 victory over FC Volendam in the Eredivisie.
The 28-year-old put in a complete performance, notching a goal and an assist as the Dutch league season nears its conclusion.
From the opening whistle, Ajax asserted their dominance. Manager John van't Schip's men pressed relentlessly, leaving Volendam with little breathing room.
Their dominance paid off in the 25th minute when Chuba Akpom found teammate Kenneth Taylor with a pinpoint pass, allowing Taylor to smash home the game's opening goal.
Despite Ajax's clear first-half advantage, the score remained 1-0 going into the break. However, the second half exploded with action, transforming the match into a four-goal thriller.
Akpom on fire!
Akpom, who had been a constant menace to the Volendam defense throughout the first half, finally got his reward in the 58th minute.
His goal was a fitting tribute to his tireless performance. Ajax continued to pile on the pressure, with Brian Brobbey extending their lead to 3-0.
Kenneth Taylor wasn't done yet. The midfielder secured his brace with another goal in the 76th minute, putting the game seemingly out of reach for Volendam.
Benaissa Benamar did manage to pull one back for the home side with a consolation goal, but it was too little too late.
The victory keeps Ajax in fifth place in the Eredivisie table with 52 points after 32 matches. For Akpom, the win capped off a successful season so far.
Since his move from English side Middlesbrough to Ajax, he has amassed an impressive 15 goals in 34 appearances across all competitions.
Though he has played for England at U16, U17, U19 and U20 level, Akpom is eligbile to play for Nigeria and has stated his desire to do so.
Despite being tipped for inclusion in the provisional squad for the Africa Cup of Nations, he ultimately missed out.
Super Eagles call-up for Akpom?
However, with his current form, it wouldn't be surprising to see new Super Eagles coach Finidi George, a former Ajax player himself, extend an invitation to Akpom with the World Cup qualifiers due for next month.
However, he will face a stern competition for shirts in a stacked Nigeria attack that has the likes of Victor Osimhen, Victor Boniface and Cyriel Dessers.
Akpom's performance against Volendam, and in the Eredivisie in this season has served as a strong reminder of his talent, and his potential inclusion in the Nigerian national team could be a significant boost for their upcoming matches.
