PSV beats Ajax, provisional leader emerges without score

In the early hours of Saturday, PSV Eindhoven visited the Johan Cruyff Arena and beat Ajax 1-3, with Michel Sanchez and Ter Stegen, handing the Dutch side its first defeat of the season and taking the ‘De Topper’ trophy that puts them provisionally at the top with 13 points.

The opening goal came in the fifth minute, when Ricardo Pepi headed the ball after a header assist from Ruben Van Bommel, who received the ball after a change of direction from Perisic.

Ajax's response and key moments

Ajax responded before the break with a goal from Arokodare, almost on his own, and made it 2-1 at the thirty‑minute mark when Brandt missed against Kovar and Berghuis failed to capitalize on the rebound. In the second half of the first period, Geertruida, who was making his debut as a starter, scored a volley after a corner, equalising 2‑2.

In the second half, PSV held onto the lead while Ajax brought on former Girona player Tsygankov, without finding an equaliser. A clash between Ruben van Bommel and Aaron Bouwman forced the latter's exit, and Bajraktarevic sealed the result with the final 1‑3 in added time.

German goal sparks Dutch protest at Johan Cruyff Arena

Position in the table and upcoming challenges

With the win, PSV Eindhoven, the current champion, sits provisionally at the top with 13 points after five rounds, awaiting Sunday’s result between AZ Alkmaar and Heerenveen.

Peter Bosz presented the team's credentials to reclaim the title and for the Champions League, where they will face Real Madrid and Atlético in the group stage.

Ruben van Bommel makes a glittering debut as Xavi Hernández faces his first test

Match ratings gave Marc ter Stegen a 6, Anton Gaaei 6, Aaron Bouwman 6.5, Youri Baas 7, Caio Henrique 6.5, Jorthy Mokio 7, Davy Klaassen 6, Julian Brandt 7.5, Steven Berghuis 5.5, Tolu Arokodare 7.5, Oscar Gloukh 4.5, Sofyan Amrabat 6 and Marcos Leonardo 5.5; Michel Sanchez received a 7. Maurice Van Steen, EFE, and Xavi Solé, Journalist, highlighted the performance. A Dutch word, ‘Een’, appeared in the report and the supporters chanted ¡Go Ajax!.