FC Utrecht qualified for the final of the European playoffs in the Eredivisie after their victory against Heerenveen on Thursday night, in a lively match won 3-2. In this encounter, Souffian El Karouani played a major role, being decisive twice within a few minutes.
While Utrecht opened the scoring shortly after the break through Artem Stepanov, Heerenveen equalized thanks to Dylan Vente in the 54th minute. However, the hosts quickly responded. Two minutes later, El Karouani delivered an excellent corner kick for Mike van der Hoorn, who restored Utrecht’s lead with a powerful header.
Immediately after, the Moroccan full-back produced one of the most beautiful moments of the match. Served by Niklas Vesterlund, El Karouani struck the ball with a magnificent left-footed volley, showing great composure, to beat Heerenveen’s goalkeeper Bernt Klaverboer. A superb goal, scored in the 58th minute, which allowed Utrecht to take a two-goal lead.
Heerenveen did manage to reduce the deficit late in the match through Jacob Trenskow, but Utrecht maintained their advantage until the final whistle. With this performance, El Karouani once again confirms his importance in Utrecht’s setup, being as valuable in creation as he is capable of making a difference in key moments.
