Dutch Cup final: Fireworks delay shock Ajax defeat

Ajax suffered a 5-1 humiliation in Sunday's KNVB Cup final at the hands of unheralded PEC Zwolle as their treble dreams went up in smoke. Quite literally.

The match was suspended for 30 minutes when angry fans of the Amsterdam giants pelted the pitch with smoke-bombs and fireworks.

An advertising sign was also set on fire at Feyenoord's De Kuip in Rotterdam which played host to the final.

PEC Zwolle, based 120km to the north east of Amsterdam, were a goal down after just three minutes but rallied impressively to go in at the break 4-1 up on their way to a stunning triumph.

Ron Jans' side - who are mid-table in the Eredvisie - lifted the trophy for only the third time in the club's history and the first in 37 years.

Victory means Zwolle qualify for next season's Europa League while Ajax, managed by former Barcelona and Holland star Frank de Boer, are on the verge of a 33rd league title, but can no longer claim a domestic treble.