Excelsior Beats Sparta 3-2 in City Derby

Excelsior defeated Sparta 3-2 in the city derby at Het Kasteel, leaving Sparta's season in a minor conclusion. The win came as the final match for several Sparta players.

The match served as a farewell for Maurice Steijn, Tobias Lauritsen and Joshua Kitolano, who all featured for Sparta. Their departure added emotional weight to the encounter.

European qualification was still at stake for Sparta heading into the game. The defeat meant the Dutch club missed the opportunity to secure a continental place.

Excelsior dominated large portions of the contest, taking the lead and maintaining control. Their performance culminated in a three‑goal tally against Sparta's two.

The result caps a disappointing end to Sparta's campaign, while Excelsior celebrates a derby triumph. Both clubs now turn their focus to future fixtures.

Looking ahead, Sparta will need to regroup for the next season, whereas Excelsior can build on the morale boost provided by the victory.