NEC Secures Third Place and Champions League Qualifying Spot

NEC clinched third place in the Eredivisie, securing a spot in the third qualifying round of the Champions League for next season. Coach Dick Schreuder's side achieved the position with a win in the final round.

NEC defeated Go Ahead Eagles 2-1, a relatively comfortable victory that cemented their standing. The match provided the points needed to lock third place.

Meanwhile, FC Twente suffered a heavy 5-1 defeat away to league champions PSV. The loss confirmed Twente's fourth-place finish and a place in the second qualifying round of the Europa League.

Ajax, also vying for third, were held to a 0-0 draw by SC Heerenveen. The stalemate left them short of the automatic European qualification spots.

As a result, Ajax must now navigate the domestic play‑offs to try to claim a European berth. Success in the play‑offs would determine their participation in continental competition.

The play‑off winner will earn a spot in the second qualifying round of the UEFA Conference League. This offers a route to European football for clubs outside the top three.