Match Summary
Brighton defeated Ajax 2:0. The match was played in UEFA Europa League 2023. Goals were scored by João Pedro 42′, Ansu Fati 53′. 2 yellow cards were shown. Brighton had 64% possession while Ajax held 36%. Brighton had 12 shots (6 on target) compared to 6 (1 on target) for Ajax. Expected goals: Brighton 1.35 — Ajax 0.20. Brighton made 5 substitutions, Ajax made 5.
Match Events
Key match events between Brighton and Ajax — 2 goals and 2 cards recorded during the match.
assist: S. Adingra
Match Statistics
Brighton had 64% possession against Ajax's 36%. Brighton registered 12 shots (6 on target) while Ajax managed 6 (1 on target). Corner kicks: 5–3. Fouls committed: 6–11.
Lineups
Brighton lined up in a 4-4-2 formation under R. De Zerbi, while Ajax deployed a 4-3-3 under H. Maduro.
Squad Ratings
The overall squad rating for Brighton is 7.18, compared to 6.85 for Ajax. 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. Brighton's highest-rated starter is J. Steele (8.03), while Ajax's best-rated player is J. Šutalo (6.85).
Attacking Output
The starting XI of Brighton have contributed 7 goals and 4 assists this season, led by J. van Hecke (3G). Ajax's starters account for 0 goals and 0 assists, spearheaded by —. Goals reflect clinical finishing and chance creation, while assists highlight the ability to unlock defences through through-balls, crosses, and set pieces.
Defensive Solidity
Brighton deploy 4 defenders rated 7.05 on average, against Ajax's 4-man backline averaging 6.85. 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
Brighton field 4 midfielders averaging 6.95, versus Ajax's 3 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
Brighton start 2 forward(s) averaging —, compared to 3 for Ajax 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 84% for Brighton and 90% for Ajax. 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
Brighton's starters have collected 26 yellow cards this season, compared to 1 for Ajax. 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 Brighton's starting XI is 31.5 (youngest: J. van Hecke (25), oldest: J. Steele (35)), while Ajax average 25.0 (youngest: J. Šutalo (25), oldest: J. Šutalo (25)). 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
Brighton's starters average 19 league appearances each, versus 19 for Ajax. 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
Substitutes
Recent Form
In their last 6 matches, Brighton have recorded 4 wins, 0 draws and 2 defeats. Ajax show 2 wins, 3 draws and 1 losses from their last 6 outings.
Brighton
Ajax
API data: 15 Mar 2026