Sparta Rotterdam and NEC Nijmegen shared the points in a 1-1 Eredivisie draw on February 18, 2026. The evenly matched contest at the Sparta Stadion Het Kasteel saw both teams trade goals in a result that did little to alter their mid-table positions. NEC Nijmegen took the lead against the run of play in the 40th minute with a sharp finish. Sparta responded positively after the break, deservedly equalizing in the 65th minute through a headed goal from a corner. Both sides had chances to win it in the final stages, with each goalkeeper making important saves to ensure the points were split. The draw was a fair reflection of the balance of play, with both managers acknowledging their team's effort while ruing missed opportunities for all three points.