NIJMEGEN, NETHERLANDS — Sami Ouaissa emerged as the hero with a decisive 75th-minute strike as NEC Nijmegen edged past FC Volendam 1-0 in a tightly contested KNVB Beker encounter at Goffertstadion. The breakthrough goal finally rewarded the hosts' territorial dominance and sent them through to the next round of the cup competition, though Volendam's resolute defensive display ensured NEC had to work until the final quarter-hour for their reward.
The opening exchanges set the tone for an evenly matched affair, with possession split almost perfectly down the middle at 49.8% for NEC and 50.2% for Volendam. Despite the balanced possession statistics, NEC showed greater attacking ambition from the outset, probing and testing Volendam's backline with regularity. The visitors, content to absorb pressure and look for opportunities on the counter, maintained their defensive shape impressively throughout the first half.
Mawouna Amevor picked up a yellow card for Volendam in the 42nd minute, a booking that reflected the physical nature of the contest as both sides battled for midfield supremacy. The teams went into the interval locked at 0-0, with NEC's attacking players growing increasingly frustrated by Volendam's organized defensive structure and their own inability to convert territorial advantage into clear-cut chances.
The second half continued in similar fashion, with NEC pressing forward in search of the opener while Volendam remained compact and disciplined. Manager adjustments came thick and fast as both benches sought to influence proceedings. NEC made a triple substitution in the 64th and 65th minutes, introducing Ahmetcan Kaplan, Tjaronn Chery, and Bryan Linssen, while Willum Thór Willumsson also entered the fray. Volendam responded with Alex Plat coming on in the 65th minute, attempting to inject fresh legs into their tiring defensive unit.
The decisive moment arrived with 15 minutes remaining when Ouaissa finally found the breakthrough NEC had been searching for. The midfielder's finish broke Volendam hearts and sent the home supporters into raptures, vindicating the hosts' patient approach and persistent pressure. The goal came at a crucial juncture, just as questions were beginning to surface about whether NEC could convert their dominance into a tangible reward.
Volendam refused to surrender meekly, making a flurry of late substitutions in an attempt to salvage the tie. Robert Mühren, Aaron Meijers, and Benjamin Pauwels all entered in the 81st minute, with Tiago Codinha following in the 87th minute as the visitors threw caution to the wind. Their desperation nearly boiled over when Kayne Van Oevelen received a yellow card in the 93rd minute, but by then NEC had successfully navigated the closing stages to secure their passage.
The statistical narrative told the story of NEC's attacking intent and Volendam's defensive resilience. The hosts launched 20 shots at goal compared to Volendam's 10, yet managed just 5 on target—a conversion rate that will concern the coaching staff despite the positive result. Volendam's goalkeeper was forced into 4 saves, while his NEC counterpart made 3 stops at the other end. The corner count of 5-6 in Volendam's favor demonstrated the visitors' occasional forays forward, though these set-piece opportunities failed to produce the equalizer they desperately sought in the closing stages.
The foul count remained relatively modest at 6 for NEC and 8 for Volendam, with referee control ensuring the competitive edge never spilled over into excessive physicality. The two yellow cards shown—both to Volendam players—reflected the visitors' increasing frustration as the match wore on and their cup dreams slipped away.
This victory represents another positive step for NEC, who have now won four of their last five matches across all competitions. Their recent form includes impressive victories over AZ Alkmaar and NAC Breda, suggesting a team hitting their stride at an opportune moment in the season. For Volendam, the defeat continues a difficult period that has seen them struggle for consistency, with just one win in their last five outings.
The triumph also vindicated NEC's tactical approach, as their willingness to be patient and work for openings eventually paid dividends. While their shot accuracy left room for improvement, the sheer volume of attempts demonstrated their commitment to attacking football and their determination to advance in the cup competition. Volendam can take heart from their defensive organization for large periods, though ultimately their inability to threaten consistently at the other end proved costly.
NEC's progression sets up another intriguing cup tie in the next round, while both teams must quickly refocus on their respective league campaigns. The win provides valuable momentum for the hosts, while Volendam face the challenge of regrouping after seeing their cup journey come to an end. The contrasting emotions at the final whistle encapsulated the fine margins that define knockout football.
NEC Nijmegen travel to face Heracles Almelo on February 7, while FC Volendam make the trip to PEC Zwolle on the same day as both sides return to league action.