28 August 2019 at 19:00
Match Summary
Ajax defeated Apoel Nicosia 2:0. The match was played in UEFA Champions League 2019. Goals were scored by E. Álvarez 43′, D. Tadić 80′. 8 yellow cards were shown. Ajax had 68% possession while Apoel Nicosia held 32%. Ajax had 23 shots (9 on target) compared to 2 (0 on target) for Apoel Nicosia. Ajax made 2 substitutions, Apoel Nicosia made 3.
Match Events
Key match events between Ajax and Apoel Nicosia — 2 goals and 8 cards recorded during the match.
assist: H. Ziyech
assist: K. Huntelaar
Match Statistics
Ajax had 68% possession against Apoel Nicosia's 32%. Ajax registered 23 shots (9 on target) while Apoel Nicosia managed 2 (0 on target). Corner kicks: 6–0. Fouls committed: 15–18.
Lineups
Ajax lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation under E. ten Hag, while Apoel Nicosia deployed a 4-5-1 under T. Doll.
Squad Ratings
The overall squad rating for Ajax is —, compared to 7.03 for Apoel Nicosia. This metric is derived from each player's average match rating across all league appearances this season — anything above 7.00 is considered strong, while below 6.50 signals inconsistency. Ajax's highest-rated starter is —, while Apoel Nicosia's best-rated player is V. Belec (7.03).
Defensive Solidity
Ajax deploy 4 defenders rated — on average, against Apoel Nicosia's 4-man backline averaging —. Higher defensive ratings suggest better positional awareness, fewer individual errors, and a greater likelihood of keeping clean sheets. The rating accounts for tackles won, interceptions, aerial duels, and blocks throughout the season.
Midfield Control
Ajax field 5 midfielders averaging —, versus Apoel Nicosia's 5 rated —. Midfield ratings reflect passing accuracy, interceptions, key passes, and overall control of possession — the team that dominates midfield typically dictates the tempo and territory of the match.
Forward Threat
Ajax start 1 forward(s) averaging —, compared to 1 for Apoel Nicosia averaging —. Forward ratings capture shot accuracy, movement off the ball, dribbling success, and involvement in build-up play — they indicate who carries the greater goal threat on the day.
Passing & Build-Up
Passing accuracy averages —% for Ajax and 86% for Apoel Nicosia. Higher passing accuracy generally indicates a possession-based style with patient build-up through the thirds, while lower figures may suggest a more direct, counter-attacking approach with long balls and quick transitions.
Discipline
Ajax's starters have collected 0 yellow cards this season, compared to 1 for Apoel Nicosia. Yellow cards reflect how aggressively a team presses and tackles — a high count may indicate a physical, high-pressing style but also risks suspensions and late free-kicks in dangerous areas.
Age & Experience
The average age of Ajax's starting XI is — (youngest: —, oldest: —), while Apoel Nicosia average 35.0 (youngest: V. Belec (35), oldest: V. Belec (35)). Younger squads typically offer pace, energy, and pressing intensity, while experienced lineups bring composure, game management, and the ability to handle high-pressure moments.
Squad Depth
Ajax's starters average 0 league appearances each, versus 21 for Apoel Nicosia. High appearance counts indicate an established, well-drilled unit that the manager trusts week in and week out. Lower figures may suggest rotation, injuries, or emerging players still earning their place in the team.
Substitutes
Coach: E. ten Hag
Substitutes
Coach: T. Doll
Recent Form
In their last 6 matches, Ajax have recorded 2 wins, 2 draws and 2 defeats. Apoel Nicosia show 2 wins, 0 draws and 4 losses from their last 6 outings.
Ajax
Apoel Nicosia
API data: 23 Apr 2026