Just five minutes into the match and with the score at 0-0, members of the F-Side, Ajax’s hardcore fan group, set off numerous fireworks in memory of a fellow supporter who recently passed away. The stadium quickly filled with smoke, making conditions unsafe, prompting referee Bas Nijhuis to immediately halt the game.

After a delay of nearly 40 minutes, the match restarted, but the break was brief as the same Ajax fan group threw more fireworks onto the pitch within seconds. Nijhuis then ordered the players back to the tunnel and promptly declared the match abandoned.

Speaking to ESPN, Nijhuis confirmed his decision to end the match: "The Amsterdam mayor must give approval, but from my perspective, the match is officially abandoned. I cannot ensure the players’ safety."

'Completely disgraceful'

Following the suspension, Ajax issued a statement condemning the actions of the F-Side.

"Ajax considers what occurred in the stadium tonight completely disgraceful. We apologize to everyone affected by this incident. The safety of fans and players has been jeopardized. This behavior is unacceptable. We strongly denounce this misconduct. Fireworks have no place inside the stadium."

The Amsterdam club stressed that those responsible were searched, and extensive efforts were made to detect and prevent fireworks from entering the stadium, including the use of sniffer dogs and other measures, but these attempts failed.

Ajax added they will attempt to identify those responsible for throwing fireworks onto the pitch using available video footage and will take disciplinary action accordingly.

The Dutch KNVB issued a statement acknowledging the disappointment of the many fans uninvolved in the suspension, including the 1,200 visiting supporters.

"We deeply understand the frustration of the vast majority of well-intentioned Ajax fans and the traveling FC Groningen supporters. Those responsible are not there for the match or the sport. Naturally, there are consequences. Those who set off fireworks will face a 450 euro fine and a stadium ban ranging from 18 to 60 months. Above all, it is unfortunate for the genuine supporters who truly back their club."

Match rescheduled

One hour after the suspension, Ajax and FC Groningen announced that the remaining 84 minutes of the match will be played on Tuesday, December 2nd, at 14:30 CET behind closed doors.