Dutch football giants Ajax experienced their most significant defeat in nearly a century on Sunday, being overwhelmed by Feyenoord with a staggering 6-0 loss at De Kuip in Rotterdam.
The early onslaught came in the first half with Igor Paixao, Yankuba Minteh, and David Hancko combining for three goals, establishing a commanding lead for Feyenoord. The second half saw Minteh, Paixao, and Quinten Timber each adding a goal, sealing what fans are calling one of the darkest moments in Ajax’s storied history.
This defeat marks Ajax's eighth loss in the 2023-24 season, placing them sixth in the Eredivisie standings with 45 points, trailing the fourth-placed AZ Alkmaar by seven points. The club has faced ongoing struggles throughout the campaign, including a 10-game winless streak and a position at the bottom of the table in November 2023.
Ajax's challenges extend beyond the league. They were ousted from the KNVB Cup by USV Heracles in December and eliminated from the Europa Conference League by Aston Villa in March, leaving them with little chance of securing any trophies this season.
The instability in management has been a significant factor in Ajax's poor performance. The club has cycled through four different managers this season—John Heitinga, Maurice Steijn, Hedwiges Maduro, and John van't Schip—leading to inconsistency and lack of cohesive strategy on the field.
Off the pitch, Ajax has faced additional turmoil. CEO Alex Kroe was suspended on Tuesday due to allegations of insider trading related to his appointment in August 2023. Shortly after, the club narrowly avoided a loss to the Go Ahead Eagles with a last-minute equalizer. On Friday, it was reported that Michael van Praag, chairman of Ajax, failed to declare several of his personal shares in the club.
The 6-0 rout by Feyenoord has only intensified the pain for Ajax and their supporters. Conceding six goals in the first 67 minutes, with limited offensive efforts, underscores the depth of the club's current crisis.
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Ajax suffer worst defeat in 97 years after 6-0 loss to Feyenoord
cgtn.com
