Karlsson strikes late as Utrecht turn it around at Groningen | OneFootball

Match in Five Sentences: Utrecht beat Groningen 2-1 at the Euroborg. In the 52nd minute, Younes Taha put Groningen ahead with a right-footed finish after Tyrique Mercera's pass. Dani de Wit levelled (79.), before Jesper Karlsson struck in the first minute of second half stoppage time. Utrecht carried the greater threat, registering seven shots on target to Groningen's two and edging possession at 52.1%. Groningen remain eighth and visit FC Twente next, while Utrecht rise from 10th to ninth and host PEC Zwolle.

Player of the Match: Jesper Karlsson decided it off the bench, scoring the stoppage time winner, his first goal for Utrecht, and adding three successful final third passes in 17 minutes.

Stat of the Match: Etienne Vaessen produced five saves, keeping Groningen in contention until added time.

Three Things We Learned: Mercera's half time introduction immediately paid off, supplying the assist for Taha's opener. Yoann Cathline was a persistent outlet for Utrecht with five attempts and three on target. Groningen's shot accuracy was 18.2%, underlining why they could not add a second goal.