A penalty-shootout loss to Sparta ended Taylor Booth and Utrecht’s shot at European qualification, although the American ended a successful first season at the club with a strong substitute performance.
Ricardo Pepi was held goalless in his final game with Groningen, while Djordje Mihailovic and AZ Alkmaar were unable to claim their golden chance to jump into the Eredivisie top three.
Taylor Booth’s assist was not enough to keep Utrecht from falling against a far superior Ajax side, Kik Pierie’s first goal for Excelsior ensured that they are free from any relegation danger, while Ricardo Pepi and Groningen allowed six goals for the third time this season.
Ricardo Pepi once again saw the Groningen fans force the suspension of a game for the relegated team, while Gedion Zelalem returned to the Den Bosch starting lineup in their home draw.
Ricardo Pepi finally saw one of his goals help Groningen earn points, although a draw did little to stop the team’s spiral towards relegation, while Anthony Fontana finally earned a start for promoted Zwolle, albeit in a losing performance.
Ricardo Pepi has expressed his desire to not return to German Bundesliga side FC Augsburg, but according to the team’s managing director of sport Stefan Reuter, no decision has been made on the future of the forward.
Ricardo Pepi’s impressive strike for Groningen was for naught as they lost yet again, while Taylor Booth and Utrecht had their dominant performance ruined by three disallowed goals.
Ricardo Pepi’s strong showing for struggling Groningen has caught the eye of another Eredivisie competitor, as PSV Eindhoven is rumored to be targeting the American for a summer transfer.
US Soccer announced on Sunday that AZ Alkmaar attacking midfielder Djordje Mihailovic has joined the latest USMNT roster for the upcoming CONCACAF Nations League games in place of the injured Tim Weah.
Ricardo Pepi’s ninth goal of the season helped Groningen spot a narrow path to survival while Taylor Booth’s injury in Utrecht’s victory will leave American fans nervously waiting for any update to his status.
