Ajax’s surprise win over Real Madrid in the Champions League round of 16 earlier this week have boosted Dutch chances of a direct ticket into the competition next season.

That victory, plus Red Bull Salzburg’s loss to Napoli, means the Netherlands is now back in 11th place on the all important Uefa coefficient list, just ahead of Austria.

If the Netherlands can hang on to 11th place, the winners of the Eredivisie in the 2019/2020 season will qualify directly for the Champions League. Last year title holders PSV had to go through several qualification rounds to move into the regular competition.

If Salzburg lose in front of their home crowd in the second leg next week, next season’s Eredivisie winner will be assured of a direct place.

Ajax’s Real Madrid win put the Amsterdammers into the quarter finals of the Champions League for the first time since 2003.