Heracles secured a 2-1 away win over FC Groningen thanks to late goals from Jeff Reine‑Adelaide and Manny Rodriguez. The match, held at Sportpark Scheetheuvel in Delden, was decided in the final minutes when Jan Zamburek scored the winner.
How did the first half unfold?
Heracles started brighter; Daniël van Kaam, back from RKC Waalwijk, sparked the attack. Keeper Lovro Stubljar kept Groningen at bay with several key saves, including a dive on a shot by Walid Ould‑Chikh. Despite chances from David van der Werff and Marco Rente, the score stayed 0-0 at halftime.
What changed after the break?
A refreshed Heracles line‑up entered the second half: former club icon Thomas Bruns, recovered striker Jeff Reine‑Adelaide and newcomer Jean‑Paul N’Djoli. Pressure mounted and in the 71st minute N’Djoli found a short corner and tucked the ball home – 0‑1 for Heracles. Moments later Reine‑Adelaide finished a pass from the Icelander to level the match (1‑1).
How did the winning goal arrive?
In the very last phase, around the 86th minute, Manny Rodriguez delivered a cross to Jan Zamburek, who calmly slotted the ball into the net. It became the 2‑1 that secured Heracles' victory. Coach Dick Lukkien admitted his side gave away too many chances, but praised the squad’s resilience.
What does this mean for Heracles?
The win adds three points, yet the club remains at the bottom: 18th in Eredivisie, 19 pts, 5W‑4D‑25L. With 35 goals scored and 85 conceded, the goal difference sits at -50. They are 65 points behind PSV Eindhoven and must improve quickly. The next fixture is an away game against Jong Ajax on 27‑11‑2026.
Who stood out?
Keeper Lovro Stubljar earned praise for his aerial and ground saves. Jorg Schreuders, deployed as right‑back, made a solid impression despite preferring a midfield role. Young forward Jean‑Paul N’Djoli announced his arrival with a debut goal.
Heracles can be pleased with the comeback, but Lukkien stresses that defensive organization must tighten. The club hopes to collect more points in the coming weeks and narrow the gap.
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