Ajax's rough season got worse on Thursday when they were ousted from the KNVB Cup by amateur side USV Hercules, a team that plays in the Dutch fourth division.
Hercules took the lead after just 16 minutes through Tim Pieters, who scored a second in the 66th minute to give his side a 2-0 lead. Ajax then mounted a comeback with two goals after the 80th minute courtesy of Brian Brobbey and Chuba Akpom. The amateur side responded with a 93rd minute game-winner, which was scored by Mats Grotenbreg, to advance to the round of 16.
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Despite Hercules' lengthy lead, it was Ajax who were the dominant side throughout. They boasted 76% possession, outshot the opposition 28 to 14 and registered more shots on target. Ajax were unable to take advantage of their opportunities and now mark their earliest exit since the 1996-97 season. The team finished runner-up in the cup competition last campaign.
One of the Netherlands' most successful clubs, this season has been far below the standard they usually meet. They failed to advance from their Europa League group and won just one of their six matches and have climbed up to fifth in the Eredivisie table after a poor start to the season. They are still 23 points adrift of first place PSV.
Hercules are the lowest-ranked team left in the KNVB and will play their round of 16 match in mid-January. The matchups for the next round have yet to be drawn.
