Young and Depleted Ajax Pursue Victory in Azerbaijan: Steur, Bouwman, Mokio Start
A young and youthful Ajax team is on a mission to secure their first points in the Champions League as they face Qarabag FK in Baku. The match, played at the Tofiq Bahramov Stadium, sees Ajax entering the contest without any points after five games.
Match Overview
Ajax’s coach, Fred Grim, has opted for a youthful lineup, focusing on future strategies while also eyeing the upcoming Klassieker against Feyenoord. The impressive debutants include:
- Sean Steur (17 years, midfielder)
- Aaron Bouwman (18 years, defender)
- Jorthy Mokio (17 years, midfielder)
This match is critical for Ajax, as they aim to recover from their poor standing in the group after previous losses against notable teams.
Qarabag’s Form and Strategy
Qarabag FK, under the experienced management of Qurban Qurbanov, is having a successful campaign. They have previously achieved victories over teams like Benfica and FC Copenhagen, drawing against Chelsea. Their sturdy performance puts them in a favorable position.
Key Players
Carlos Duran, who scored the opening goal, has become a significant threat. Other notable players include:
- Leandro Andrade, a creative midfielder close to a WC appearance
- Kasper Dolberg, leading Ajax’s attack
Historical Context
Historically, Ajax faced Qarabag in previous tournaments, including memorable encounters in the Europa League. Ajax won a notable match 3-0 last year in the Europa League, but that victory may not reflect the current squad’s capabilities.
Stadium Significance
The Tofiq Bahramov Stadium, named after a famous referee, holds a peculiar history for Ajax, who once contested the Intercontinental Cup there in 1971. This adds emotional weight to the match.
Weather Conditions
Players will contend with rain in Baku, affecting play and possibly the strategy both coaches choose to deploy. With conditions challenging, the match’s dynamic is set to be intense.
Conclusion
As Ajax aims to find their rhythm, the match against Qarabag presents an essential challenge. With youthful energy on their side, Ajax hopes to score a crucial victory in Azerbaijan.
