Sofyan Amrabat has reacted to AFC Ajax's poor start in the Europa Conference League. The midfielder described Thursday's 2-1 defeat away to HNK Hajduk Split as a case of bad luck at the worst possible time.
The match in Croatia was marked by a disruptive incident. "We had the momentum, but then they throw fireworks," Amrabat said about the interruption that broke Ajax's rhythm. Shortly after play resumed, the team made a costly error. Jofre Torrents, making his first start, gave the ball away leading directly to Hajduk Split's winning goal.
Amrabat was quick to defend his teammate. "We must not point fingers. It's unfortunate for that lad. He trains very hard and very well, it's his first match." Ajax had created chances to decide the match earlier but failed to take them, despite Davy Klaassen's 53rd-minute equaliser.
The defeat puts Ajax under pressure in the group stage of the competition. It fits a patchy period for the Amsterdam side, who sit fifth in the Eredivisie with 15 points from eight games. The team must now quickly refocus on league duties. Their next fixture is away to FC Groningen, who are currently sixth. The full standings and upcoming fixtures schedule are available online.
Top scorer Tolu Arokodare, who has four goals this season, could not find the net in Croatia. Ajax must shake off the mistakes to continue their decent league form, having scored 22 goals in eight matches. All attention now turns to the trip to Groningen this weekend.
The report in full is at Voetbal International
