Nigerian forward Tolu Arokodare put on an outstanding display in Europe on Thursday night, scoring twice and providing an assist as Ajax cruised to a 6-1 victory over FC Midtjylland in the UEFA Europa Conference League.
The 25-year-old striker opened the scoring at the MCH Arena in the 10th minute. He struck again in the 52nd minute to give Ajax a 2-1 lead, before setting up teammate Owen Wijndal for the third goal just before the hour mark.
The match capped a remarkable week for the Super Eagles attacker. Prior to the game, Ajax technical director Jordi Cruyff revealed that arrangements for a permanent transfer are already in place, according to Soccernet.ng. Cruyff noted during an interview with Ziggo Sport that terms are settled, stating, "Everything has already been arranged."
Cruyff praised Arokodare's work ethic and attitude, describing him as a team player with a good mentality, while also mentioning that the forward had asked for a pay rise during a recent press conference.
Arokodare is currently spending the season on loan in Amsterdam from English club Wolverhampton Wanderers. The temporary arrangement includes an option to buy, with previous reports putting the potential valuation near €20 million, though exact figures have varied across reports.
The forward's latest display in Herning lifts his tally to three goals and two assists in three Conference League matches this season. Across all competitions, the Nigerian international has now recorded 12 goals since arriving on loan.
His strong scoring run provides a welcome lift for Nigeria ahead of the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Tanzania later this month.
Ajax will return to domestic league action on Sunday with a fixture against FC Twente before players depart for the international break.
