Fortuna Sittard hold off FC Groningen in five-goal Eredivisie contest

Fortuna Sittard secured a hard-fought 3-2 Eredivisie victory at FC Groningen, giving coach Danny Buijs a successful return to the club he previously represented as both a player and manager. It was Fortuna’s first away win in more than five months.

Lequincio Zeefuik created the opening goal for Mohamed Ihattaren in the 12th minute before scoring Fortuna’s second with a finish over goalkeeper Etienne Vaessen. Luciano Valente’s pass allowed Joey van der Werff to equalise in between, leaving the visitors 2-1 ahead at half-time.

Groningen pushed forward after the break and Thom van Bergen headed against the post, but Anthony Descotte extended Fortuna’s advantage on the counterattack. Justin Hubner’s late own goal reduced the deficit to 3-2, while substitute Nils Eggens missed an opportunity to equalise in added time. Fortuna defender Rodrigo Guth was carried off on a stretcher with an injury.

Buijs told ESPN, in comments reported by VI, that Fortuna had deliberately prepared to exploit transitions rather than press Groningen continuously. He described the closing stages as “a matter of survival” and praised Zeefuik’s contribution while stressing that the striker still has significant room to develop. Fortuna have seven points from four matches, while Groningen have now lost twice in succession following their 5-1 defeat at PSV.