De Graafschap secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over a spirited FC Utrecht Youth side at De Vijverberg on 10 October 2026, with a late goal from captain Mark van der Meer proving the difference. The win keeps De Graafschap in the playoff places of the Netherlands Eerste Divisie, while Jong Utrecht were left to rue missed opportunities in a game they competed well in for long periods.

Match Overview

The home side started brightly, using their experience to control the early exchanges. Jong Utrecht, as expected, were energetic and technically proficient, but they struggled to break down a well-organised De Graafschap defence. The visitors had the better of the opening 15 minutes, with winger Jayden Braaf forcing a smart save from De Graafschap goalkeeper Hidde Jurjus. However, it was the hosts who drew first blood, and from that point on, the game became a tactical battle of youth versus experience.

Key Moments

• 22nd minute – 1-0: De Graafschap took the lead when veteran striker Ralf Seuntjens latched onto a through ball from midfielder Danny Post and finished calmly past the Jong Utrecht goalkeeper.
• 58th minute – 1-1: Jong Utrecht equalised through a moment of individual brilliance, as forward Ilias el Baraka curled a shot into the top corner from the edge of the box.
• 84th minute – 2-1: De Graafschap regained the lead from a corner. Captain Mark van der Meer rose highest at the near post to glance a header into the net, sending the home crowd into raptures.

Tactical Story

De Graafschap set up in a 4-2-3-1, looking to use the physicality of Seuntjens as a focal point. Jong Utrecht played a fluid 4-3-3, with their young midfielders looking to overload the flanks. The visitors enjoyed more possession (56%), but De Graafschap’s defensive discipline limited them to shots from distance. The key difference was in the final third: De Graafschap took their chances, while Jong Utrecht’s decision-making let them down. The home side’s set-piece routine for the winner was straight off the training ground, catching the young defenders ball-watching.

Standout Players

Ralf Seuntjens rolled back the years with a classy performance, scoring one and holding the ball up superbly. Captain Mark van der Meer was immense at both ends, making several clearances before scoring the winner. For Jong Utrecht, Ilias el Baraka was a constant threat with his dribbling and scored a stunning goal. Goalkeeper Calvin Raatsie, on loan from FC Utrecht, made several good saves to keep his side in the game.

Season Impact

De Graafschap move up to fifth in the Eerste Divisie table, strengthening their grip on a playoff spot. Jong Utrecht remain in 16th place, but their performance showed they can compete with the league’s better sides. De Graafschap’s next match is a tough away trip to Almere City, while Jong Utrecht host Emmen. The Superboeren will be pleased with the resilience shown here, a trait that will be crucial in their promotion push.