Crucial goals
Sparta striker Milan Zonneveld scored the 2-2 against FC Utrecht on 23 August 2026. The 22‑year‑old striker netted the crucial goals as a substitute, giving Sparta a draw after a deficit. Zonneveld added the spark the team needed and showed he can be valuable as both a substitute and a starter.
New striker and selection
With the arrival of Andrej Kostic, loaned from AC Milan, Sparta’s striker count rises to three. Kostic has not yet trained and is not in Rotterdam; he is expected to arrive at Het Kasteel in the coming week. Manager Rogier Meijer will again choose between Zonneveld and Icelandic Nökkvi Thorisson for the Rotterdam derby. Zonneveld said he wants minutes and is fully committed to making the coach face a tough decision.
Zonneveld’s view on Telstar and Utrecht
Zonneveld, who previously played for Telstar, stresses that Utrecht’s system under coach Anthony Correia demands a lot from players, especially time. He knows Correia well and cites his Telstar experience as a valuable learning base. Zonneveld hopes Utrecht will get the time to adapt and that players will regain confidence after recent defeats. He stresses that he wants to help Utrecht’s players and understands the situation.
Players and atmosphere
The match against FC Utrecht showed that Sparta came back from a deficit three times, underscoring the team’s character. The 2‑1 after halftime was short, but the team kept fighting and ultimately secured a point. Zonneveld said it was a welcome substitute appearance because he had not yet had the chance to start. He added that substitutes can be easier because opponents are tired and he is fresh.
Future expectations
With Kostic as a new striker and the possibility to play, Sparta continues to monitor how the selection develops. Zonneveld remains committed and hopes to secure a regular role. The coming week will determine whether Kostic becomes the starting striker and how Meijer weighs the options for the Rotterdam derby.
