Match Summary
Ajax defeated AEK Athens FC 3:1. The match was played in UEFA Europa League 2023. Goals were scored by C. Akpom 5′, L. García 11′, K. Taylor 20′, C. Akpom 56′. 7 yellow cards were shown. Ajax had 42% possession while AEK Athens FC held 58%. Ajax had 14 shots (9 on target) compared to 14 (4 on target) for AEK Athens FC. Expected goals: Ajax 2.73 — AEK Athens FC 0.68. Ajax made 4 substitutions, AEK Athens FC made 4.
Match Events
Key match events between Ajax and AEK Athens FC — 4 goals and 7 cards recorded during the match.
assist: K. Hlynsson
assist: N. Eliasson
assist: J. Hato
assist: A. Martha
Match Statistics
Ajax had 42% possession against AEK Athens FC's 58%. Ajax registered 14 shots (9 on target) while AEK Athens FC managed 14 (4 on target). Corner kicks: 5–5. Fouls committed: 15–9.
Lineups
Ajax lined up in a 4-3-3 formation under J. van 't Schip, while AEK Athens FC deployed a 4-2-3-1 under M. Almeyda.
Squad Ratings
The overall squad rating for Ajax is 6.85, compared to 7.02 for AEK Athens FC. 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 J. Šutalo (6.85), while AEK Athens FC's best-rated player is P. Mantalos (7.49).
Attacking Output
The starting XI of Ajax have contributed 0 goals and 0 assists this season, led by —. AEK Athens FC's starters account for 4 goals and 12 assists, spearheaded by P. Mantalos (3G). Goals reflect clinical finishing and chance creation, while assists highlight the ability to unlock defences through through-balls, crosses, and set pieces.
Defensive Solidity
Ajax deploy 4 defenders rated 6.85 on average, against AEK Athens FC's 4-man backline averaging 6.93. 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 3 midfielders averaging —, versus AEK Athens FC's 5 rated 7.16. 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 3 forward(s) averaging —, compared to 1 for AEK Athens FC 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 90% for Ajax and 48% for AEK Athens FC. 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 1 yellow cards this season, compared to 16 for AEK Athens FC. 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 25.0 (youngest: J. Šutalo (25), oldest: J. Šutalo (25)), while AEK Athens FC average 31.2 (youngest: L. Rota (28), oldest: D. Vida (36)). 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 19 league appearances each, versus 16 for AEK Athens FC. 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, Ajax have recorded 2 wins, 3 draws and 1 defeats. AEK Athens FC show 3 wins, 3 draws and 0 losses from their last 6 outings.
Ajax
AEK Athens FC
API data: 15 Mar 2026