Ajax Dominates Vojvodina to Advance in UEFA Conference League
Ajax secured a spot in the third round of the UEFA Conference League qualifiers following a commanding 4-1 victory over Vojvodina Novi Sad, contributing to an impressive aggregate score of 8-2 across both legs of the tie. The decisive match took place in Amsterdam, where Ajax showcased their dominant performance.
Manager Michel, opting for consistency, fielded the same starting lineup that triumphed in Serbia just a week prior, despite holding a comfortable 4-1 lead from the first leg. Notably absent from the starting roster were striker Marcos Leonardo, acquired for 20 million euros, and fellow Brazilian teammate Caio Henrique, both of whom remained on the bench. Additionally, Nigerian forward Tolu Arokodare, currently on loan from Wolves, was ineligible for the fixture.
Right from the beginning, Ajax applied pressure on Vojvodina’s goalkeeper Dragan Rosic, with Mika Godts and Kasper Dolberg both attempting early strikes, though their efforts ended without success as the ball sailed over the bar. Rosic would later deny further attempts, reaching a total of five saves within the first 20 minutes, highlighting Ajax’s aggressive start.
While Ajax controlled the game, it was Vojvodina who unexpectedly struck first. In a surprising turn of events, Djordje Crnomarkovic managed to evade Ajax’s defense to score during a corner, benefiting from a deflection off Daley Blind that left goalkeeper Maarten Paes with no chance.
Ajax’s response was swift, with Davy Klaassen leveling the match shortly before the halftime break. He redirected a header from Youri Regeer past Rosic in the 44th minute, bringing the score back to parity.
The second half saw Ajax regain control and take the lead in the 53rd minute. Oscar Gloukh displayed exquisite skill, combining with Mika Godts before delivering a stunning shot into the top corner of the net using the outside of his boot. Gloukh wasn’t finished; he doubled his tally shortly after, executing a curling effort into the corner of the goal following a well-timed pass from Steven Berghuis.
Completing a hat-trick, Gloukh added Ajax’s final goal in the 70th minute, connecting with a cross from Oliver Edvardsen and leaving Rosic with no chance to save it. This remarkable performance not only sealed the victory for Ajax but also marked the team’s first hat trick of the season.
As Ajax settled into a more relaxed rhythm for the remainder of the match, only minor opportunities materialized, with substitutes Marcos Leonardo and Jorthy Mokio making their mark without finding the net.
With this consistent victory, Ajax prepares to face Irish club Shelbourne in the next round, with the first leg scheduled to take place in Amsterdam on August 6th, continuing their quest for success in the UEFA Conference League.
