FC Volendam Beats Willem II 2-1 in Playoff Final First Leg

FC Volendam defeated Willem II 2-1 in the first leg of the promotion/relegation playoff final in Tilburg on Saturday. The win moves the Eredivisie side closer to securing their top‑flight status.

Volendam took the initiative early and built a two‑goal lead within the first twenty minutes. Bilal Ould‑Chikh capitalised on a mistake by Perr van Loon to make it 0‑1, and shortly after Henk Veerman finished from a pass by goalkeeper Thomas Didillon to make it 0‑2.

Willem II rallied after the break. Gijs Besselink delivered a precise through ball to Nick Doodeman, who slotted home to reduce the deficit to 1‑2.

Despite the comeback, Willem II could not find an equaliser. Volendam restored possession, created chances and struck the post twice in the second half, after also hitting the post before halftime.

Volendam finished the previous Eredivisie season in sixteenth place, while Willem II were third in the Eerste Divisie, setting the stage for the two‑leg final.

The second leg will be played in Volendam on Saturday, giving the home side the opportunity to seal their survival.

With a two‑goal advantage, Volendam are in a strong position to retain their Eredivisie spot, but Willem II still have a chance to overturn the result in the return match.