The Ajacieden performed well in the first half, but failed to take three huge chances. Two of those fell to Youri Regeer, who was denied at the near post by goalkeeper Barkas as early as the second minute. Later, the midfielder was presented with an even bigger opportunity. A shot from Mika Godts came back off the post, leaving Regeer with an open goal in front of him. However, he fired over.
The third big chance came after interplay between the Danes. Anton Gaaei was played through, after which the Dane attempted to find compatriot Kasper Dolberg with a driven cross. The striker was only a toe-length away from turning it in at the far post.
Ajax found things more difficult in the second half and chances became scarcer. FC Utrecht were hardly threatening either, but fifteen minutes from time they did get their first opportunity. Josip Šutalo intervened excellently to block a shot from Sébastien Haller.
Nine minutes from time, Utrecht nevertheless took the lead. Niklas Vesterlund headed home at the far post. Ajax did not give up and responded quickly. Three minutes later, Wout Weghorst bundled home the equaliser.
Ajax wanted more and pushed for the 2-1. Rayane Bounida could have provided it, but Barkas was in the way. For Ajax, the ending was bitter, as Utrecht struck in stoppage time instead. Former Ajax player Mike van der Hoorn scored from a corner.
As a result of the defeat, Ajax no longer have direct qualification for European football in their own hands. The Ajacieden will conclude the regular season in a week’s time with an away match against sc Heerenveen.
Ajax - FC Utrecht 1-2 (0-0)
81. Vesterlund 0-1
84. Weghorst 1-1
90+6. Van der Hoorn 1-2
Ajax: Paes, Gaaei, Sutalo, Baas, Rosa, Regeer (73. Steur), Gloukh (57. Klaassen), Mokio (83. Edvardsen), Berghuis (73. Bounida), Dolberg (57.Weghorst), Godts.
