Ajax secured a firm hold on their Europa League playoff against Union Saint-Gilloise, winning the first leg 2-0 on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at the Stade Joseph Marien in Brussels. The match started under the watchful eyes of supporters eager to see if the home team could pull off what many thought would be an upset against the traditional powerhouse from the Netherlands.
Both teams entered the stage fueled by the weight of their histories—Union Saint-Gilloise on the rise after years of investment and Ajax, seeking to reclaim their stature on the European front. The first half saw mostly cautious play, as both sides analyzed their opponents without risking too much. The Union had notable opportunities to score but were unable to capitalize, with Franjo Ivanovic missing two significant chances.
The match took on new life after halftime. Ajax, under coach Francesco Farioli, seemed to find their attacking rhythm. Their first goal came swiftly, just 13 minutes after the break. A clever play from Fitz-Jim allowed Edvarsen to find Christian Rasmussen, who skillfully placed the ball beyond the reach of the Union goalkeeper, giving Ajax the lead.
Having taken the lead, Ajax’s confidence surged. Eleven minutes later, they doubled their advantage with a stunning long-range strike from 16-year-old Jorthy Mokio, who sent the ball curling away from the defenders and slipping precisely past the keeper's outstretched hands after cornering off Berghuis’s kick. The stadium erupted, validating Mokio’s decision to take the shot.
Despite their lead, Ajax faced challenges with key players sidelined due to injury, including Wout Weghorst. Coach Farioli spoke after the match, stating, "The goals came from solid team effort. We need to maintain this form heading back home for the next leg."
Union Saint-Gilloise's coach, Sebastien Pocognoli, expressed disappointment but not despair. "We need to regroup for the second leg. We had our chances, but we need to sharpen our execution to compete at this level," he remarked, reflecting on their missed opportunities throughout the match.
The upcoming second leg set for February 20, 2025, at the Johan Cruyff Arena promises to be another intense clash, as Union Saint-Gilloise will need to overturn the deficit to continue their European dream.
The rivalry, which marks the first official encounter between the two clubs, has already heightened interests and expectations. Union’s endeavor for European prominence faces the giants of Dutch football. Recent performances put them on solid ground, and who knows, football can bring surprises. Yet, if Ajax demonstrates they can continue this momentum, Union will have their work cut out.
Expectations are high from both fan bases, who relish the prospect of spectacular football and the potential of becoming the next European champions. Whether history and form will favour Ajax or bring forth the underdog spirit of Union Saint-Gilloise remains to be seen. Football is not just about who’s stronger, it’s also about heart and determination, elements both teams have plenty of.