Sports

UCL: Valencia Eliminate Last Season Semi-Finalist Ajax

Last season’s Champions League semi-finalists Ajax were knocked out in the group stages as Valencia progressed instead with victory at the Johan Cruyff Arena.

Rodrigo scored the only goal midway through the first half as he blasted into the roof of the net from Ferran Torres’ clever pass.

Ajax desperately pushed for the equaliser they needed with Lisandro Martinez and Hakim Ziyech forcing late saves from Valencia keeper Jaume Domenech.

Valencia had defender Gabriel sent off in injury time for clashing heads with Dusan Tadic in a very tense finale in Amsterdam.

Ajax were seconds away from reaching last year’s final before Lucas Moura’s injury-time strike sent Tottenham to the final instead.

Frenkie de Jong and Matthijs de Ligt were among the stars of that team to leave last summer and they have not been the same since.

Read Also: UCL: Dortmund Defeat Slavia Prague To Reach Champions League Last 16

Two defeats at home – by Chelsea and Valencia – and a 4-4 draw at Stamford Bridge have ultimately cost them.

Valencia go through as group winners, with Chelsea in second after their 2-1 win over Lille. Ajax drop into the Europa League last 32.

Source:BBC

Otunba T.J Abass

The Publisher, Ekohotblog.com

Share
Published by
Otunba T.J Abass

Recent Posts

Minister Alausa Calls for Revitalization of TVET to Boost Nigeria’s Workforce

Dr. Alausa stressed TVET revitalization. He urged better teacher training. He emphasized governance collaboration. The…

9 minutes ago

Bollywood Star Saif Ali Khan Stabbed in Violent Burglary Attempt at Home

Saif Ali Khan was stabbed during a burglary attempt at his Mumbai home. The actor…

26 minutes ago

Aseyin of Iseyin Calls for Stronger Collaboration with Oyo State Water Corporation

Aseyin of Iseyin, HRM Oba Sefiu Olawale, Oyo State Water Corporation Chairman Elias Adeojo has…

39 minutes ago