Ajax End Galatasaray’s Unbeaten Run
Ajax Amsterdam secured their place in the Europa League playoffs with a 2-1 victory over Galatasaray, ending the Turkish side’s impressive 26-game unbeaten run. The win saw Ajax leapfrog Galatasaray in the final group standings, finishing 12th, while the Turkish champions ended up in 14th place.
Bertrand Traoré opened the scoring for Ajax in the 23rd minute, finishing off a rebound after Fernando Muslera had saved Chuba Akpom’s initial effort. Traoré then turned provider for Kian Fitz-Jim, who doubled Ajax’s lead early in the second half.
Galatasaray, whose unbeaten streak stretched back to August, pushed for a way back into the match, but Victor Osimhen and Michy Batshuayi both missed good chances before Osimhen eventually scored a consolation goal in stoppage time.
Despite the defeat, Galatasaray also qualified for the playoffs, but their long unbeaten run came to an end at the hands of an impressive Ajax side.
Ajax’s victory was a testament to their attacking prowess and their ability to capitalize on opportunities. Traoré’s goal and assist were crucial in securing the win, while goalkeeper Remko Pasveer, who captained the side in the absence of Jordan Henderson, produced a solid display.
Galatasaray will be disappointed to have missed out on a top-eight finish and automatic qualification for the last 16. Their failure to convert their chances proved costly, with Osimhen and Batshuayi both squandering opportunities to get back into the match.
Both Ajax and Galatasaray will now compete in the Europa League play-off round, facing opponents from the Champions League who finished between 17th and 24th in the league phase. The draw for the playoffs will take place on Friday.
The absence of Jordan Henderson as captain has fueled speculation about the midfielder’s future at Ajax. The former England international could be on his way out of the club in the January transfer window.
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