Ajax has been eliminated from the KNVB Cup after losing its semi-final match against FC Utrecht, 2-0. The Ajacieds are now only active on one front.
Ajax gets the ball, Utrecht gets the goal
Ten Hag’s team was dominant in the first half. The Amsterdam team had much more possession than the home team, but this situation didn’t result in a goal for them. There was no shortage of opportunities. Hakim Ziyech was on the receiving end of a good attack, but his long-range shot was easily stopped by Utrecht keeper Jeroeon Zoet.
Later in the game, the keeper had to do his utmost to stop a beautiful shot by Nico Tagliafico. The Argentinian player didn’t falter and took possession of the ball from thirty meters. Zoet was barely able to make the save.
Utrecht strikes in a standard situation
Ajax seemed to be in control of the situation, but the visitors needed to be alert on several occasions. John van den Brom’s team waiting for the transition, and in this way, they created danger in front of Andre Onana’s goal on several occasions.
After about thirty minutes of play, the home team took the lead. Sander van de Streek sent in a header from Simon Gustafson’s free kick: 1-0. It was the only goal scored before the break.
Ajax on the hunt for tying goal
Ten Hag’s men made a promising start to the second half. After a long attack, Daley Blind decided to take a shot from afar. His attempt went a few centimeters wide.
Shortly after, it was Quincy Promes’ turn. The forward fired shots at the Utrecht goal, but his attempts didn’t make good.
Onana beaten from twelve yards out.
Ajax needed to remain vigilant for a quick transition, with good reason. Van der Streek was sent in deep and promptly hauled down by Edson Álvarez. Referee Björn Kuipers indicated the spot, and Gustafson took full advantage: 2-0.
Closing attack doesn’t bear fruit
Ajax’s assignment was clear: score 2 goals in order to force overtime. To this end, forwards Klaas Jan Huntelaar and Danilo were brought in. But these substitutions didn’t change the final score. The home team won, 2-0.
Ajax focusses on race for the title
After being eliminated in the KNVB Cup quarter finals, Ajax remains active on only one front. A hard reality for the Amsterdam team. On Saturday, Ajax resumes its hunt for the Eredivisie title with a game at SC Heerenveen.