Dutch football analyst Marciano Vink has been left impressed by Super Eagles striker Tolu Arokodare, praising the Nigerian’s technical ability and physical presence following his substitute appearance for Ajax, Footynaija.com reports.
Arokodare came off the bench during Ajax’s 2-2 draw against Excelsior on Saturday, September 19, after illness prevented him from starting the encounter.
The 25-year-old needed just two minutes to make an impact, finding the back of the net in the 64th minute to bring Ajax level after Excelsior had taken the lead.
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Although the Amsterdam giants were unable to secure all three points, Arokodare’s performance attracted praise from Vink, who highlighted the forward’s qualities beyond his goalscoring ability.
“What a beast,” Vink said on De Eretribune, as revealed by Voetbal Primeur.
“Something is really happening. He can also just play football incredibly well. Often with tall players, it looks a bit clumsy.
“Zlatan, for example, doesn’t have that; he is athletic. But he (Arokodare, ed.) too… he can really play football well. Cutting the ball away, behind his standing leg.”
Vink also praised the Nigerian’s energy and ability to compete in aerial duels, identifying those qualities as important parts of his game.
“Every club wants him up front right from the start, doesn’t it?”
“The energy that man brings and the aerial duels he takes on. Because Meissen and Widell are also two giants, but he just wins those. It’s beautiful to watch.”
Arokodare’s strong start to life at Ajax has continued to turn heads, with the striker recording six goals and two assists in nine appearances across all competitions since joining the Dutch club on a season-long loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The Nigerian’s performances have also earned him a place in Eric Chelle’s 24-man Super Eagles squad for the upcoming AFCON 2027 qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.
With Victor Osimhen unavailable due to injury, Arokodare’s fitness and form could prove important as Nigeria prepares for the two qualifying fixtures.
