Ajax's struggles in the Eredivisie deepened as they suffered a 2-1 loss to AZ Alkmaar at the AFAS Stadion in Round 15.

Despite showing determination, the visitors were unable to overcome their opponents, slipping further down the league standings.

AZ broke the deadlock in the 65th minute when Troy Parrott capitalized on Peer Koopmeiners' expertly placed cross, sending a superb strike into the top corner.

The home side doubled their advantage in the 76th minute as Mayckel Lahdo headed in another precise delivery from Koopmeiners, igniting celebrations among the AZ faithful.

Ajax fought to regain momentum, and in the 81st minute, Dutch-born Ghanaian striker Brian Brobbey showcased his creativity with a perfectly weighted pass to Mika Godts, who finished with composure to halve the deficit.

Brobbey's assist, his second of the season, offered a bright spot in an otherwise tough match for the Amsterdammers.

Another player with Ghanaian parentage, Ernest Poku was on the winning side for AZ as he featured for83 minutes before Kees Smith replaced him.

Despite controlling 57% of possession and displaying flashes of promise, Ajax struggled to penetrate AZ's resolute defense, leaving them with another setback in an increasingly challenging season.