Decisive figure pulls the strings for NEC Nijmegen | OneFootball

Sami Ouaissa changed the game in the 71st minute with a threaded through ball for the clincher, as NEC Nijmegen beat Excelsior 2-0.

The midfielder had signalled his threat early, forcing a low save with a left-footer from outside the box (13.). After the restart he kept asking questions, drawing another stop with a drive that was turned behind for a corner (61.).

He then dragged a presentable chance wide from the right side of the area (65.). Moments later he split the defence, sliding in Basar Önal to finish for NEC's second (71.). He kept hunting space and later sent another effort over from distance (78.).

Ouaissa's numbers underlined the control: four attempts, two on target, and one assist, plus three interceptions and 12 successful passes in the final third. His positioning between the lines let him receive on the half turn, progress play and keep Excelsior pinned back.

NEC Nijmegen remain third in the Eredivisie and host Feyenoord next. Excelsior sit 16th and visit PEC Zwolle next.