Unexpected victory: Ajax stuns Real Madrid and garners applause

Thank you Ajax, thank you for this soccer.’ Not a headline you would normally expect in a country whose champion you have just humiliated. Just as no one would have seen a burst of applause coming from the enemy’s stadium. Yet it happened to the Amsterdammers in November 1995. Edgar Davids, the brightest star of the evening, balled his fists and shouted with delight after the 0-2 win at Real Madrid.

The Highlight Reel of a Lava Keg: Celebrating 50 Years of Miraculous Moments

The keg of swirling lava experienced many highlights in his career. Think of the miraculous six months when he came to the aid of Frank Rijkaard and, together with Ronaldinho, woke Barcelona from a deep hibernation. Think of his seasons as both left and right hand of Zinedine Zidane at Juventus.

Imagine the iconic reunion with his former companion Clarence Seedorf at De Arena during that pleasant springtime. Reflect on his game-winning score against Yugoslavia during the 1998 World Cup, which was a moment of redemption.

Yet this Monday we go back to that heavenly winter night in Madrid to celebrate his 50th birthday.

Because it combines artistic class with physical supremacy, Ajax is The Beauty AND The Beast, according to Real coach Jorge Valdano. But actually, Edgar Davids is already that on his own

Because no match exemplifies the phenomenal soccer player that Edgar Steven Davids could be.

Victory Amidst Racism: A Story of Resilience and Triumph in Football

Just under two months earlier on a visit to Ferencváros in Budapest, every ball contact from him and his black teammates was still accompanied by jungle noises. In Estadio Bernabéu, supporters of the opponent were already secretly groaning with delight at every tackle or dribble of the man who suddenly had to operate at 4 due to the absence of Frank de Boer. Once the final signal had sounded, they were beyond shame and clapped their hands in admiration.