NEC Nijmegen played out a 2-2 draw with Excelsior on Tuesday evening at De Goffert. Manager Dick Schreuder's team equalized deep into added time through Noé Lebreton, after the Rotterdam side had taken the lead in the second half.
This result, reported by Voetbal International, leaves NEC with seven points from five matches. Excelsior currently sits fifth in the Eredivisie with nine points from four games, having scored ten goals and conceded just three. The Rotterdam-based club trails league leaders AZ Alkmaar by six points.
Why did NEC make so many changes?
Schreuder was forced into eight changes to his lineup compared to the previous 1-3 home loss to Feyenoord. Linssen and Nejasmic were unavailable, Schuurs could not start, and Sandler was only fit for about thirty minutes. Even Sierhuis, who was injured, called the coach to ask if he could still contribute. Schreuder advised caution. Lebreton also played with some discomfort. "That's why we are happy with a point." the NEC manager said.
This mass rotation highlights the squad-building challenges Schreuder referenced. The team needs to grow, especially after last season's third-place finish which he believes misled many people. Excelsior's current squad shows a group still coming together.
How did Bram Nuytinck's return go?
Another key narrative was the return of defender Bram Nuytinck. After an ankle injury, he was ready for the season start but had previously told Voetbal International he was playing through pain. During the match against Excelsior, he appeared to suffer another ankle injury. Schreuder praised his comeback. "I think it's super impressive how he has returned. But we have put a bit of strain on him." Player fitness is key in the busy start to the campaign, which can be tracked on the injuries page.
What does this point mean for the table?
For Excelsior, it's a mixed result. The team could have taken all three points but must be content with one from a tough away fixture. With a +7 goal difference and a recent form of WWLW, the club is firmly positioned in the upper half. The standings show a top-five place remains within reach. The title race is long, but the six-point gap to AZ demands consistency.
Excelsior's next fixture is a home match against FC Groningen on October 11th. Groningen currently sits ninth in the table. This game is an opportunity to further solidify their position near the top of the Eredivisie.
