NEC Nijmegen

The football club NEC Nijmegen was founded on November 11, 1900, as Eendracht (translated means 'Unity'). Later it merged with a team called Nijmegen to form Nijmegen Eendracht Combinatie, or NEC. Over the years, NEC has become one of the most recognized football clubs in the eastern Netherlands, playing their home matches at the Goffertstadion. The club has a proud history and has produced several notable footballers.

In the post-World War II era, NEC Nijmegen achieved significant success by earning promotion to the top tier of Dutch football, Eredivisie, for the first time on May 19, 1945. This marked a major milestone in the club's history, solidifying its stature within Dutch football. Their promotion came as a result of consistent performances and a strong squad, establishing a competitive presence in the country's premier league.

In 1978, NEC Nijmegen reached the final of the KNVB Cup, a prestigious national cup competition in the Netherlands. Although the club did not win the trophy, the cup run demonstrated the team's competitive spirit and strengthened its reputation in Dutch football. The final was played on June 6, 1978, and despite the loss, this appearance remains one of the club's notable achievements in its storied history.

After a decade of fluctuating fortunes, NEC Nijmegen secured promotion back to the Eredivisie on June 2, 1994. This was a pivotal moment for the club as it marked a return to the highest level of Dutch soccer after several years in the lower divisions. The team's performance during the promotion season showcased resilience and determination, setting a platform for future successes.

NEC Nijmegen qualified for the UEFA Cup for the first time in its history in May 2003 by finishing 5th in the Eredivisie. This achievement marked an important chapter for the club as it provided the opportunity to compete on the European stage, garnering international experience and exposure. The UEFA Cup run further endeared NEC to its fans and highlighted their potential in European competitions.

In December 2008, NEC Nijmegen reached the Round of 32 in the UEFA Cup, a significant achievement for the club on a European level. They matched up against prominent European teams, showcasing their ability to compete internationally. This accomplishment was a testament to the club's growth and aspirations beyond domestic success, as they gained valuable experience playing against top-level European competition.

On April 25, 2014, NEC Nijmegen was relegated from the Eredivisie to the Eerste Divisie following a challenging season with inconsistent performances. The relegation served as a wake-up call for the club to reassess and rebuild, aiming to bounce back stronger. This was a difficult period for the fans and players alike, as they strived to regain their place in the top flight.

NEC Nijmegen secured a swift return to the Eredivisie on April 3, 2015, after just one season in the Eerste Divisie. The team's performance that season was dominant, and their promotion was a testament to the club's determination and commitment to regain their status amongst the elite of Dutch football. Their campaign featured a mix of experienced players and promising young talent, fueling optimism for the club's future.

On May 28, 2017, NEC Nijmegen endured a heartbreaking defeat in their relegation playoff match against NAC Breda, causing them to be relegated once again to the Eerste Divisie. The loss capped off a turbulent season where the club struggled with consistency and form, ultimately failing to maintain their Eredivisie status. Fans and players were left to regroup and plan their path back to the top tier.

NEC Nijmegen successfully secured promotion to the Eredivisie on May 23, 2021, after defeating NAC Breda in a gripping playoff final. This victory marked a significant comeback for the club as they reclaimed their position in the top division of Dutch football. The triumph was celebrated passionately by supporters, symbolizing hope and renewal after years of challenges and rebuilding efforts.