Ajax in Marka: seven failing grades after being released

Ajax in Marka: seven failing grades after release

According to Vi.

Context

Having seven players with low grades highlights the challenges facing Ajax, especially on their journey to the UEFA Europa Conference League. Players like Marcos Leonardo, who did not contribute, need to think about their roles in the team to achieve success in the next matches.

Why it matters

Ajax's progress to the UEFA Europa Conference League play-offs is an important step for their season outlook, but their performance against Shelbourne highlighted the team's weaknesses. Despite gaining an early lead, a lack of control and confidence cast doubt among supporters and management. The seven players given a failing grade show the need for better performance in the next matches.

Key Points

• Ajax in Marka: seven failing grades after being released.
• Ajax advanced to the UEFA Europa Conference League play-offs despite twice conceding the lead against Shelbourne in Dublin; seven players were given failing grades, while Julian Brandt and Daley Blind were the few who passed.
• Ajax op Rapport: zeven insufrehensive na kleurloze versødning in Dublin.

Ajax's trip to Dublin has not been easy. Holding a 3-1 lead from the first leg, fans can only hope that Míchel's side will finish the job against Shelbourne FC. The visitors did score quickly—through debutant Julian Brandt, after Daley Blind's clever clearance—to take an early lead. But this was also where Amsterdam's resentment took root: they lost their advantage twice in a night that lacked enthusiasm and confidence. Despite progressing to the UEFA Europa Conference League play-offs, management and supporters were clearly unconvinced by the performance shown. When the scores were tallied, seven were given failing grades—an indication of many areas of the game that did not live up to the level expected of Ajax. Rhythm in the middle, ball control and protection at the back were repeatedly tested by Shelbourne, who are fifth in the current Irish league standings, but found a way to break through and catch up. Brandt and Blind were among the few who passed. Brandt's debut on the starting line-up made an immediate impact, as Blind showed his experience in the build-up and decisiveness in attack—including his clever “miss” that opened up an early goal chance. They are some of the lights in a yellow night for visitors.

On the other hand, the great expectations of Marcos Leonardo failed. The Brazilian's latest top acquisition "shined" in the absence—a stark reminder that presence and ferocity are still needed up front in such tight European matches. Likewise, Aaron Bouwman and Owen Wijndal were unable to match the pace and determination of the Dubliners; they were repeatedly put in trouble defensively and did not contribute enough in transition. Tonight's message was stark: even in the play-offs, Ajax are still far from the form expected to push for a deep European campaign. A clear uptick in pressing, more careful forward management, and more efficient finishing in front of goal is needed. Especially as the level of competition is higher in the next stage, every shortcoming is easily punished. For Míchel's team, the match in Dublin has a lesson. A 3-1 first leg laid down a comfortable cushion, but it wasn't reason enough to slack off. Entering the play-offs of the UEFA Europa Conference League, it is necessary to strengthen the defense, control the midfield early, and above all, maintain the intensity from start to finish. Those who passed—like Brandt and Blind—had to be accompanied by more teammates in the next match; otherwise, Ajax's form will remain sluggish and their European ambitions will hang in the balance.

What's next

In the coming weeks, Ajax should focus on improving their midfield and defensive strategies in order to deliver a stronger performance in the UEFA Europa Conference League. Players like Julian Brandt and Daley Blind are expected to be key in building a more reliable team. Their next match will be important not only for their progress in the league but also for building confidence among the players.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the result of the match between Ajax and Shelbourne FC?

Ajax scored an early goal through Julian Brandt, but they lost their lead twice in the match.

How does this match affect Ajax's standings in the UEFA Europa Conference League?

Despite the poor performance, um Ajax advances to the UEFA Europa Conference League play-offs.

Who are the players who gave a good performance for Ajax?

Julian Brandt and Daley Blind were some of the players who passed the score tally.

What are Ajax's next matches in the UEFA Europa Conference League?

There is no specific information on Ajax's next match in the UEFA Europa Conference League in the given context.

Why are supporters not convinced by Ajax's performance in this match?

Due to many areas of the game that did not live up to the level expected of Ajax, such as rhythm in the middle, ball control, and protection at the back.

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