AFC Ajax got off to a flying start in the Conference League qualifiers on Thursday night. The Amsterdam side won 4-1 away at FK Vojvodina, handing manager Míchel a winning debut in his first official match in charge.
What happened in Serbia?
Ajax traveled to Novi Sad needing a positive result to advance in the Conference League qualifiers. The team started slowly but turned the game around quickly. Steven Bergwijn equalized early in the first half after a swift counterattack. From there, Ajax took control and finished the match 4-1.
The Amsterdam side dominated especially in the second half. Brian Brobbey and Chuba Akpom each scored twice, while goalkeeper Diant Ramaj made several crucial saves. The win puts Ajax one step closer to the next round of the Conference League.
Goals this season: 57 scored, 37 conceded (+20 goal difference). Title race: 23 points behind leaders PSV Eindhoven.
Why this win matters for AFC Ajax
For Míchel, this was a vital test. His first official match as Ajax head coach went without a hitch. The team showed character by coming back and then dominating. That’s exactly the signal the club needed after a disappointing finish last season.
The squad also delivered confidence. Bergwijn, Brobbey and Akpom stood out, but the defense was solid too. With just one qualifier left to play, the path to the group stage is now much clearer.
FC Twente stumbles at home
Not only Ajax played European football on Thursday. FC Twente lost 1-2 to Ferencváros at the Grolsch Veste. Joseph Oosting’s side must now win big in the return leg to advance. For Twente, this is a setback after a strong start in the qualifiers.
What’s next?
Ajax plays the return leg at home against FK Vojvodina next week. A win would secure a spot in the Conference League group stage. For the Amsterdam side, this is a key step to regain their place among Europe’s best.
Currently sidelined: Jonathan Alexander De Guzman, Tobias Lauritsen, Lance Duijvestijn, Mike Kleijn, Jonathan Alexander De Guzman and Mike Kleijn again.
