Chuba Akpom kicked off 2025 in style, scoring a late equalizer as Ajax battled back to draw 2-2 with VfB Stuttgart in an intense friendly at the Robert-Schlienz-Stadion.

A Tale of Two Halves

Stuttgart started the match on the front foot, racing to a 2-0 lead within the first 20 minutes. Ajax struggled to find their rhythm, creating just one notable chance in the first half through Bertrand Traoré.

The game took a dramatic turn after halftime when Ajax made sweeping changes, leaving Daniele Rugani as the only starter on the pitch.

The shift in momentum paid off in the 52nd minute when Rugani’s header from a free-kick caused confusion in the box, resulting in an own goal credited to Stuttgart’s Julian Chabot.

Akpom’s Late Heroics

Substituted on in the second half, Chuba Akpom delivered the equalizer five minutes from time. Left unmarked, the Super Eagles prospect calmly slotted home Owen Wijndal’s precise low cross in the 85th minute.

Akpom, who had endured a nine-game goal drought in league matches before the winter break, nearly secured victory moments later but saw his shot saved by Stuttgart’s goalkeeper.

With rumors swirling about a potential move to France, Akpom’s confidence-boosting performance could reignite his form as Ajax prepare for the resumption of competitive action.

For now, his late strike serves as a reminder of his ability to deliver when it matters most.