Ajax Amsterdam delivered a commanding performance on Thursday evening, securing a 2-0 victory against Union Saint Gilloise at the King Baudouin Stadium during the first leg of their UEFA Europa League playoff. This significant win positions Ajax favorably as they aim for advancement to the knockout stages.
The match unfolded against the backdrop of challenging pitch conditions, detracting from both teams' gameplay. Despite these obstacles, Ajax showcased their class and depth, particularly during the second half, as they found their rhythm and controlled the game. Coach Francesco Farioli made tactical changes, opting for several bench players, which proved effective as they rose to the occasion.
Ajax's young star, 16-year-old Jorthy Mokio, captured headlines with his impressive play and pivotal contributions. Emerging as the standout performer, Mokio scored his first professional goal, becoming the youngest-ever goalscorer for Ajax in European competitions. He previously made headlines by rejecting a move to Barcelona, indicating his commitment to Ajax.
The first half was marked by tension and missed opportunities. Ajax came close early on, with Norwegian forward Oliver Edvardsen nearly finding the back of the net, only for Union's defense to scramble and clear the ball off the line. The home side seemed to control possession initially, but both teams struggled to capitalize on goal-scoring opportunities as the halftime whistle approached.
Notably, Union had two goals disallowed due to offside calls, reflecting the game's intensity and the razor-thin margins within competitive European football. Ajax's defense, bolstered by veteran Davy Klaassen, managed to contain Union's attacking threats and cleared dangerous chances as the home team continued to threaten from set-pieces.
The second half marked a turning point for Ajax. The breakthrough came in the 59th minute when Christian Rasmussen received the ball from Edvardsen before finishing strong, sending the ball ricocheting off the post and firmly placing Ajax in the lead at 1-0. Their confidence grew exponentially after this goal, allowing for more fluid play.
Just twelve minutes later, Mokio struck gold, sealing Ajax's fate with his remarkable volley. Following a corner kick taken by Steven Berghuis, the ball found its way to Mokio, who met it with precision, firing it past the Union goalkeeper, extending Ajax's lead to 2-0. His celebration reflected not just the personal triumph but the collective excitement surrounding the Dutch club's rising star.
“This was really special for me,” said Mokio after the match. “To score at such a young age and help the team is everything I have worked for.” His passionate performance has solidified his place within Ajax's lineup, not only for this season but likely for many years to come.
Maintaining their composure, Ajax defended their lead vigorously, with Klaassen clearing off the line late in the match to preserve the clean sheet. His all-around contribution anchored the midfield, showcasing the experience necessary to maintain focus even under pressure.
The final scoreline of 2-0 places Ajax in a strong position heading back to Amsterdam for the second leg of the playoff. Their performance was not just about securing the win but also about building momentum as they continue their pursuit of European glory.
Looking forward, the team must remain focused as they prepare to face Heracles Almelo on Sunday, where they hope to retain their spot at the top of the Eredivisie table. The combination of European commitments and domestic league performance will test the squad's depth and resilience throughout the season.