Former Ajax center-back Perr Schuurs has offered an intriguing perspective on Tolu Arokodare, explaining why he considers the Nigerian international a tougher challenge to mark than seasoned Belgian goalscorer Romelu Lukaku.
Currently on loan at Ajax from Wolverhampton Wanderers, Arokodare has enjoyed a prolific resurgence. The 25-year-old continued his fine form on Saturday, requiring only seven minutes to rise above the defense and power home a header from Jorthy Mokio’s delivery. Although the early effort marked his fourth league strike and seventh overall this campaign, it was not enough to prevent Ajax from dropping points in a frustrating 1-1 draw against NEC, leaving the Amsterdam outfit sitting 15th in the Eredivisie table.
Schuurs, who came through Ajax before moving to Torino and subsequently NEC, admitted to being taken aback by the forward’s extraordinary physical presence and aerial reach. Reflecting on their battle, the Dutch defender noted that contesting high balls against the Super Eagles forward felt nearly futile, humorously observing that Arokodare seems three meters tall once airborne. He highlighted how the attacker managed to generate immense force from a gentle delivery, catching the backline off guard despite their preparations to nullify him.
Drawing upon his four-year spell in Serie A, Schuurs drew a direct comparison between the Nigerian powerhouse and other elite target men he has encountered, including Lukaku and Gianluca Scamacca. The defender argued that Lukaku is generally simpler to contain because the Belgian prefers the ball played low into his feet, whereas Arokodare actively seeks aerial service and welcomes chest-to-chest duels.
Beyond his on-pitch display, Arokodare also caught attention with a touching celebration, hoisting the shirt of injured colleague Kasper Dolberg to offer support during his prolonged layoff. The striker credited compatriot Victor Osimhen for recommending the tribute before the match.
Arokodare will aim to maintain his sharp finishing touch on Thursday when Ajax kicks off their UEFA Conference League campaign against Croatian outfit Hajduk Split.