A draw and a defeat: disappointing night for Ajax, AZ in Europe

Ajax's Nicolas Tagliafico kicks the ball during the game. Photo: AP Photo/Bernat Armangue)
Ajax’s Nicolas Tagliafico kicks the ball during the game. Photo: AP Photo/Bernat Armangue)

Ajax’ hopes of remaining in European football competition took a serious knock in Thursday night’s away game against Madrid side Getafe, which ended in a 2-0 defeat for the visitors.

The Amsterdammers now have everything to play for in the return Europa Cup round of 32 leg next Thursday.

‘We lost because of unnecessary mistakes,’ Ajax coach Erik ten Hag said after the match. ‘The outlook [for the return match] is poor, but Ajax is not a team to give up.’

In Alkmaar, a penalty late into the second half allowed AZ to escape with a 1-1 draw against Austrian side Lask. The return leg also takes place next Thursday.

Match reports
Match review

Thank you for donating to DutchNews.nl.

We could not provide the Dutch News service, and keep it free of charge, without the generous support of our readers. Your donations allow us to report on issues you tell us matter, and provide you with a summary of the most important Dutch news each day.

Make a donation