IFK Göteborg, without the injured Marcus Berg, were looking to spice up their season.
Five losses in the last six rounds had placed "Blåvitt" in the unexciting middle region of the table.
AIK was chasing a European qualification spot and had five new names in the starting eleven compared to the loss against Häcken last time.
Among other things, Sebastian Larsson was back after suspension.
Nick in the post
The first half at Gamla Ullevi was goalless.
AIK clearly created the most chances.
But IFK Göteborg had the sharpest, when Eman Markovic headed in the post on a cross from Hosem Aiesh.
- We need to get a little more mobility, said Gustaf Norlin, lone striker in Gothenburg, to Discovery+ during the break.
Erik Ring in AIK was not completely satisfied with the lawn, after a lot of rain in Gothenburg.
- It is a very soft and slippery pitch, it is difficult to have possession.
There will be a bit more fighting and long balls, says Erik Ring to the TV channel.
The second half was an entertaining, high-tempo battle between two teams that wanted to win.
Gothenburg took command more and more as time went on.
Markovic's first
In the 81st minute came the payoff.
Hosam Aiesh, lively on his right flank, came inside and passed to a free Eman Markovic on the other side.
Markovic coolly sent the ball in at the far post - his first goal for Gothenburg after the loan from Norrköping.
The next task for IFK Gothenburg is the derby against league leaders Häcken on Sunday.
If Häcken scores then, the Hisingslaget will become Swedish champions in 2022 - at IFK's "hometown", Gamla Ullevi.
We can probably trust that "Blåvitt" will do everything to prevent it.