Ajax's promising start to the 2026-27 Eredivisie campaign suffered a setback on Sunday as they surrendered a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with Heerenveen.

The result has also intensified attention on the upcoming clash with defending champions PSV.

Feyenoord suffered a similar disappointment later in the day, also drawing 2-2 after leading Go Ahead Eagles 2-0. For Ajax, however, the result has prompted particularly strong criticism, with supporters already questioning the team's prospects of challenging for the title.

The meeting with PSV is now approaching quickly. The two sides are scheduled to face each other in early September, with the result potentially providing an early indication of the direction of the title race.

Ajax appeared in control against Heerenveen after establishing a 2-0 advantage, but the visitors fought their way back into the contest. The draw has led to growing frustration among supporters, particularly after the optimism surrounding the club in recent weeks.

Some Ajax fans have already expressed concern that PSV remain the stronger side under Peter Bosz, who is seeking a fourth consecutive Eredivisie title.

The comparison is more significant because Ajax's latest signing, Julian Brandt, knows Bosz personally.

Brandt worked under the PSV coach during his time at Bayer Leverkusen and has maintained contact with him since Bosz moved on to Lyon and subsequently PSV.

The German midfielder has made no secret of his admiration for his new club's biggest domestic rival's coach.

“I played under Peter Bosz at Bayer Leverkusen, and I really appreciate him a lot; I love his style," he said as quoted by PSV Inside.

Brandt also explained that his relationship with Bosz has continued over the years.

“Since then, we’ve had contact every year, also when Peter was in Lyon, for example. He is a very good person, but also a demanding coach who wants to become champion for the fourth time in a row with PSV.”

That familiarity means Brandt understands precisely what Ajax will face when the clubs meet.

“Early September, we’ll be up against each other; that will be great but also tough for Ajax.”

The early results have added significance to Brandt's warning. PSV opened the campaign with a 2-2 draw against Fortuna Sittard before recovering to beat Excelsior 2-1, while Ajax have now also dropped points after failing to protect their advantage against Heerenveen.

Feyenoord's 2-2 draw with Go Ahead Eagles has further complicated the early title picture.

For Ajax, the challenge is to turn their attacking quality and investment into consistency. For PSV, the objective is clear: they must continue Bosz's pursuit of a historic fourth successive league championship.

Brandt's assessment now carries an added relevance. The German knows both the demands of Bosz's football and the standards required to challenge PSV.

And with Ajax and PSV set to meet in early September, there will be little time for either side to settle into the new campaign before facing one another.