Shelbourne is struggling with a difficult general preparation ahead of their Conference League match against Ajax. The Irish club was defeated by Waterford, the ninth-placed team in the league, with a 1-0 loss. Shelbourne, currently fifth, fell behind after Tom Lonergan scored for Waterford shortly after halftime. The striker had another chance to double the lead from the penalty spot but missed it. Shelbourne could not turn the game around and lost the match. On Thursday, the first Conference League clash with Ajax in the third qualifying round will take place in Amsterdam. A week later, there will be a return match in Dublin.
In contrast, DAC 1904 has shown positive signs with a victory over Dukla Banská Bystrica, thanks to two goals from strikers Matej Trusa and Giorgi Gagua. This follows a draw against Ruzomberok (1-1) at the start of the new season. DAC 1904 will play against FC Twente in Enschede on Thursday, with the first Conference League match to follow.
Shelbourne cannot compete financially against Ajax, which has a squad valuation of €230 million. Moreover, the Amsterdam club was very active on the transfer market this summer with new signings.
DAC 1904’s victory gives hope for a good performance in the Conference League match against Twente, but Shelbourne will be busy preparing for the challenging duel with Ajax.
