Helmond Sport secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Almere City FC on Friday night, with a stoppage-time winner sending the GS Staalwerken Stadion crowd into celebration and pushing Helmond into the top half of the Eerste Divisie standings.

The hosts began assertively, holding early possession and pressing Almere back. Their persistence paid off in the 31st minute when Labinot Bajrami broke the deadlock. After neat build-up play, Bajrami coolly finished past the keeper following an incisive assist from T. Poll, capping a well-worked team move that showcased Helmond’s attacking intent.

The first half continued with Helmond Sport controlling midfield, anchored by strong performances from Bajrami and Poll. Almere City, meanwhile, struggled to generate clear chances, with their midfield unable to establish sustained control.

After the break, Almere City increased their urgency, bringing on fresh legs—J. Rijkhoff and G. Beaumont were introduced in the 61st minute, sparking greater movement up front. Helmond responded with their own substitution, T. Essakkati, aiming to solidify their defensive shape.

The contest heated up with yellow cards for J. Jacobs (75', Almere City) and P. Llonch (83’, Helmond Sport) as both sides looked for a late breakthrough.

Almere City’s persistence was finally rewarded in the 84th minute, when B. Huisman found the equalizer, finishing off a swift counterattack that split the Helmond defense and brought the visitors level. The goal injected tension into the closing moments, setting the stage for a frenetic finale.

As the match ticked into injury time, Helmond pushed forward one last time. In the 94th minute, Lion Semić—recently introduced—delivered the decisive blow. Semić latched onto a loose ball during a chaotic goalmouth scramble, slotting home to give Helmond Sport a dramatic late winner, with Almere’s defense left in despair.

This result carries significance for both clubs. Helmond Sport, now sitting comfortably in mid-table, will take pride in their resilience and late-game mentality. Almere City FC, dropping to 15th, are left ruing missed opportunities and must regroup quickly to avoid slipping further down the table.

Key substitutions—A. Leipold and M. Lukowicz for Helmond, E. Cornelisse, B. Reith, and T. van der Zeeuw for Almere—reflected tactical adjustments, but ultimately it was Helmond’s attacking depth that proved decisive.

For supporters and neutrals alike, this fixture delivered high drama and showcased the unpredictability of Eerste Divisie football. Helmond’s late heroics will be remembered as one of the season’s standout moments.

Video Highlights from channels with over 50,000 subscribers further capture the match’s key moments and atmosphere, underscoring the excitement felt throughout the stadium.