January 10, 2012

AZ Alkmaar goalkeeper Esteban, from Costa Rica, reacts as he is attacked on the pitch by an Ajax Amsterdam supporter during the soccer match at the Amsterdam Arena December 21, 2011. (REUTERS/Ajax/Louis Van De Vuurst)

The Dutch Cup replay between Ajax Amsterdam and AZ Alkmaar on Jan. 19 will be watched by a crowd of children only, it was announced Tuesday.

The original match was abandoned Dec. 21 shortly before halftime after a fan invaded the pitch and attacked Alkmaar keeper Esteban.

Esteban retaliated and was sent off, but his red card was rescinded and Ajax was forced to replay the game in an empty stadium.

Ajax last week asked the Dutch football association to allow women and children to attend the match but the ruling body decided that only the latter would be permitted.