The 25-year-old forward came off the bench to break the deadlock in the 87th minute before setting up Moroccan teenager Abdellah Ouazane for Ajax’s second goal in stoppage time at the Johan Cruijff ArenA.
The victory gave Ajax their first three points of the league phase after opening their European campaign with a 2-1 defeat away to Hajduk Split.
Arokodare makes the difference late on
Ajax dominated significant periods of the contest but struggled to turn their possession and attacking opportunities into goals against a determined Atalanta side.
Arokodare entered the match as a substitute and initially missed an opportunity to put the hosts ahead. However, he made amends in the 87th minute when he controlled a long pass from Youri Baas, held off the challenge of a defender and finished calmly past goalkeeper Marco Carnesecchi.
The Nigerian then turned provider in the third minute of added time, helping Ouazane seal the result with an excellent finish from a tight angle.
The two late goals ensured Ajax claimed all three points after a frustrating evening in front of goal.
Nigerian forward strengthens his growing influence
Arokodare’s contribution against Atalanta further underlined his importance to Ajax since arriving from Wolverhampton Wanderers on a season-long loan in July 2026.
The agreement includes an option for Ajax to make the transfer permanent at the end of the 2026/27 campaign.
According to Pan Africa Football, the Nigerian had recorded eight goals and three assists in 13 appearances across all competitions this season before the latest match report was published. His goal and assist against Atalanta added to that tally.
The forward previously established his reputation in Belgium, where he finished as the Belgian Pro League’s leading scorer with 21 league goals during the 2024/25 season while playing for Genk.
His move to Ajax provides an opportunity to re-establish himself at a major European club after a difficult spell at Wolves.
Ajax turn attention to their next European fixture
The win over Atalanta offers Ajax renewed momentum as they seek to improve their position in the Conference League league phase.
The Dutch side will next face Danish club Midtjylland on 5 November, while Atalanta are scheduled to host Kazakhstan’s Kairat Almaty.
For Arokodare, the latest performance strengthens his case for more playing time after making a significant impact from the bench. His ability to score and create chances could prove valuable as Ajax pursue progress in Europe and domestically.