Jorthy Mokio scored twice in six minutes as Ajax Amsterdam secured a 5-2 away victory over Groningen in the Dutch Eredivisie, delivering an impressive performance for the 18-year-old midfielder of Congolese descent.
The young DR Congo international struck in the 69th and 75th minutes during Sunday’s ninth-round fixture, helping Ajax claim a convincing win on the road.
Mokio’s brace took his season tally to three goals, highlighting his growing contribution to the Amsterdam club despite his primary responsibilities in midfield being defensive.
The midfielder started the match and played the full 90 minutes, underlining the trust placed in him by the coaching staff.
Although his usual role involves protecting the defence and helping to control the midfield, his display against Groningen demonstrated his ability to make an impact in the attacking third as well.
Ajax dominated the contest to secure the five-goal haul, with Mokio’s two second-half strikes adding to the team’s impressive performance.
His goals came within a short spell after the interval, as he found the net first in the 69th minute before completing his brace six minutes later.
For a player still developing at senior level, the performance represents an important opportunity to strengthen his position within the squad.
His ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch could prove valuable as Ajax continue their domestic campaign and prepare for their upcoming European fixture.
Mokio was born in Belgium and has represented the country at youth and senior international levels, but he now plays for the Democratic Republic of Congo national team.
His background gives the performance added significance for Congolese football supporters following the progress of players representing the country at clubs across Europe.
At Ajax, Mokio operates as a central or defensive midfielder.
The Groningen match offered a glimpse of another dimension to his game, as he moved beyond his regular defensive duties to score twice in quick succession.
His goals helped Ajax turn their attacking pressure into a substantial away victory, with the side finishing the match with five goals.
Groningen managed two in response, but Ajax maintained their advantage to take all three points.
The result also provides a boost for Mokio as he continues to gain experience in the Eredivisie.
At 18, he remains at an early stage of his professional development, and regular involvement in Ajax’s first team gives him opportunities to improve his understanding of the game at a high level.
Scoring a brace in a match that ended in a 5-2 victory is likely to draw further attention to his progress, particularly among followers of DR Congo’s national team.
His three goals this season also demonstrate that he can offer an attacking threat despite playing in a position generally associated with defensive responsibility.
Ajax will now turn their attention to their second Conference League group-stage match against Atalanta.
