In a clash that lived up to the expectations of the KNVB Beker, Twente delivered a commanding performance against ROHDA Raalte, winning 4-1 at Sportpark Tijenraan on October 30, 2025. This second preliminary round match showcased Twente's strength, demonstrating why they currently compete in the Eredivisie while ROHDA resides in the lower divisions.
The match started at a brisk pace, and it was ROHDA Raalte that drew first blood. In the 15th minute, an unknown player from Raalte found the back of the net, giving the home side early momentum. This unexpected goal sent the fans into a frenzy, giving them hope that an upset was on the horizon. Little did they know, this lead would be short-lived.
Twente responded in the 34th minute when Sam Lammers scored, equalizing the match and snatching the momentum back for the favorites. Following this, Twente seemed to settle into their rhythm, their confidence growing with each passing minute.
The second half opened with a bang as Arno Verschueren put Twente ahead in the 50th minute, and the visitors never looked back. Just eight minutes later, in the 58th minute, Sondre Ørjasæter extended the lead to 3-1, effectively putting the match out of reach for ROHDA. With the scoreline starting to reflect their dominance, Twente secured their victory even further in the 78th minute when Bas Kuipers netted the fourth goal of the afternoon.
This victory was particularly significant for Twente, who came into this match having lost a tough Eredivisie fixture against Ajax just days earlier. The 4-1 win not only boosts their confidence but also allows them to advance further in the KNVB Beker, relieving some pressure on their season ambitions. After a series of mixed results, including draws and a painful loss in league play, this match provided a much-needed lift for the team.
On the other hand, ROHDA Raalte entered this match with a wave of momentum, riding high from four straight wins in the Derde Divisie. Their recent form had included impressive victories, such as a 4-0 triumph over ADO '20 just a week prior. However, this defeat serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges that come with competing against a higher-division side.
Both teams will now look to their future matches with renewed focus. For Twente, this win serves as a springboard into the next rounds of the cup, allowing them to build on this performance as they continue to navigate the Eredivisie. Conversely, ROHDA Raalte must regroup and refocus, aiming to maintain their strong league form as they return to the Derde Divisie.
Reflecting on the pre-match predictions, it seems I underestimated Twente's ability to bounce back from adversity. Although I speculated that ROHDA could pull off an upset, the higher division's quality shone through on the day. In the end, Twente's decisive performance demonstrated the importance of experience and depth in knockout competitions. As they look ahead, the stakes become higher for both teams, each with their own battle to fight in the weeks to come.