Ajax will play its second top match of the week on Sunday. After the unfortunate loss against Chelsea, the Ajacieds are hoping to avenge themselves against their old rival, as Erik ten Hag said in Thursday’s press conference. “We know what games against Feyenoord can unleash. It’s up to us to ensure that we’re ready.”
It’s an unusual day and time. Press conferences prior to an Eredivisie game normally take place on Friday. But the Ajacieds have a day off this week on Friday. That’s why the press conference prior to the Classic took place on Thursday this week, the day after Ajax - Chelsea.
Details are critical in top games
It was no surprise that much of the discussion revolved around the Champions League game against Chelsea. Especially the bitter end (0-1). “Things didn’t go our way yesterday”, said Ten Hag. “But unfortunately, that’s how football is. The details are critical in top games. Unfortunately, it didn’t work out for us yesterday.”
Ten Hag was relatively contented with Ajax’s performance. He referred to it as a ‘strong team performance’. “We executed the plan that we created beforehand. We had a team that went to battle for each other. The execution wasn’t always the best, which can happen. That can also be the form you’re in that day.”
Remain professional
According to Ten Hag, games against Feyenoord are in a league of their own. For that reason, he did not wish to draw any conclusions or comparisons following the Chelsea game. “They can’t be compared. Chelsea is at the top of the Premier League and of Europe. Feyenoord is a totally different opponent. We need to focus on that, and we’ve started to do that. We know what Feyenoord can unleash. We need to remain professional.”
Ten Hag was also asked about his best Classic moment. His answer was short and sweet, but crystal clear. “I think it was last season’s 0-3 win in de Kuip.”