The Ajax Women were unable to perform a miracle against Chelsea last night. They were eliminated from the Champions League under the watchful eye of the families who faithfully traveled with them. Because where Ajax goes, they go. The family of 20-year-old Milicia Keijzer from Alkmaar and the parents of 26-year-old Kay-Lee de Sanders from Amsterdam were there and dreamed of ‘The Miracle of London’.
Although that miracle did not materialize last night, it was special for both families to see their daughters shine at Stamford Bridge. At the stadium where it all happened on Wednesday evening, Sonja Kok, mother of Milicia Keizer, and her son Danny felt the atmosphere during the day. It is not natural for them to walk around here together.
Sonja has cancer and watched the group matches on television in the hospital a stone’s throw from the Johan Cruijff Arena. “I couldn’t be there because of chemo, but I could almost hear it from the hospital.” The disease now makes it possible to be there in London. “That’s amazing,” she beams. “It would be a miracle if they continue, but the fact that I am here already is.”
It is also a special day for Kay-Lee de Sanders’ parents. Next to the London Eye, they briefly look back on their daughter’s childhood and the role Ajax has played for years. “From an early age, everything has always been Ajax for her. Ajax pajamas, Ajax toothbrush, Ajax bedroom,” says mother Ellen. “But everything is still Ajax for her. This is really a dream come true,” father Remyo adds.
They are always there and enjoy following their daughter. That is very special, says Kay-Lee after the match. “They have been everywhere since I was little. I hope to be able to give something back later.”
To enjoy
Sonja: “We realize that life is short. Seize the day and enjoy it. And especially these kinds of matches in London, at Chelsea. How cool is that.”
The Ajax players on the field were able to make the traveling families cheer at least once. The match at Stamford Bridge ended 1-1, but it must be said that Ajax had absolutely no chance of winning. The successful Champions League adventure is now over, but afterwards there was little room for major disappointment.
In addition to being grateful that her family has traveled with her again, De Sanders is especially proud after the match. “When I was substituted, I was sitting there and then I noticed that my eyes were getting a little watery, because I realized that it wasn’t going to work anymore,” she says. “But also especially the realization that it was such a beautiful adventure. It is finished, but we can be so proud.”
