Ajax vs Galatasaray – Tactical Analysis | Europa League 2024/25

The Ajax vs Galatasaray match is the final game of the Europa League league phase, with both teams still fighting for a place in the next round. Galatasaray can qualify directly for the Round of 16, while Ajax can only progress through the play-off round. Ajax comes into this match after a shocking 0-1 loss to Latvian side RFS, a disappointing result that put them in a tough position. Galatasaray, on the other hand, let a 2-0 lead slip in their last game, drawing 3-3 against Dynamo Kyiv. With everything to play for, both teams need a strong performance to keep their Europa League hopes alive.

Ajax vs Galatasaray Starting XI’s

Ajax Starting XI (4-3-3 Formation)

• GK: Pasveer
• DEF: Gaaei – Sutalo – Baas – Hato
• MID: Fitz-Jim – Henderson – Taylor
• ATT: Bertrand Traoré – Brobbey – Godts

Galatasaray Starting XI (4-2-1-3 Formation)

• GK: Muslera
• DEF: Gabriel Sara – Bardakci – Sanchez – Ayhan
• MID: Kutlu – Torreira
• CAM: Mertens
• ATT: Akgün – Osimhen – Yilmaz

First Half Analysis – Ajax vs Galatasaray

The first half of the Ajax vs Galatasaray match has been an engaging, high-paced play. Ajax holds a 1-0 lead after a well-executed counter-attack finished by Bertrand Traoré. In terms of possession, Galatasaray edged out Ajax with 55% compared to 45% for the hosts. The game is going up and down towards both goals with space on the midfield for both teams to quickly transition the play.

Tactical Play

Galatasaray focused their attacks centrally, with Gabriel Sara pulling the strings in midfield, while Kutlu covered left-back duties, unlike what the starting XI suggested. Osimhen’s deep runs and physicality have been a constant threat, especially his headers are a struggle for Ajax, but Ajax’s defense has stood firm. Ajax’s midfield trio: Taylor, Henderson, and Fitz-Jim has been key to controlling the tempo and supporting their attacking plays, with Brobbey holding up play and feeding teammates in dangerous areas, especially on the wings.

Key Statistics and Insights

Both teams have had similar expected goals (xG), with Ajax at 0.86 and Galatasaray at 0.77, reflecting the balance in overall chances created. Galatasaray dominated in terms of final third entries, with 42 compared to Ajax’s 22, yet Ajax’s compact defense has denied them clear opportunities in the box. The game remains balanced with both teams recording 3 shots on target, but Ajax’s goal from Traoré is the standout moment so far.

Ajax vs Galatasaray: Full-Time Analysis

Match Overview

Ajax secured a 2-1 victory over Galatasaray, ensuring their passage into the Europa League play-off round. Despite a late goal from Galatasaray, Ajax’s defensive resilience and counter-attacking efficiency made the difference.

Second Half: Ajax Seals the Win

The second half saw Galatasaray come out with more intensity, pressing high for an equalizer (as displayed on the pictures below). Osimhen, who had been a constant threat in the first half, continued to challenge Ajax’s defense. However, Ajax’s tactical discipline and solid defense held strong throughout.

A key moment came in the 58th minute when Ajax doubled their lead. A quick counter-attack saw Gaaei deliver a perfect pass to Traoré in the box who gave it to Fitz-Jim, he slotted the ball into the far corner after a brilliant run around Traoré. Galatasaray pushed forward in search of a comeback, but Ajax remained composed.

With Galatasaray’s high pressing leaving space behind their defense, Ajax looked to exploit those gaps. Despite a late rush from Galatasaray, including a 90+4th-minute goal from Osimhen, the damage had already been done, and Ajax held on to secure the win.

Tactical Insights and Conclusion

While Galatasaray dominated possession with 61%, Ajax’s counter-attacking football and ability to transition quickly from defense to attack proved to be decisive. Ajax’s compact defensive shape in the second half made it difficult for Galatasaray to break them down, despite their 68 final third entries and 41 touches in the penalty area. Galatasaray also registered a higher xG (2.71 vs 1.44), but Ajax’s efficiency in front of goal proved to be the difference.

Although Galatasaray had the majority of the ball and created more chances (9 shots on target vs Ajax’s 6), Ajax’s defensive solidity and well-executed counter-attacks sealed a crucial 2-1 victory, securing their place in the Europa League play-off round.

Teams Progressing to the Next Round

The following teams will progress straight to the next round of the UEFA Europa League:

• Lazio
• Athletic Bilbao
• Manchester United
• Tottenham Hotspur
• Eintracht Frankfurt
• Olympique Lyon
• Olympiakos
• Rangers FC

Teams Progressing to the Play-Offs Round

• FK Bodø/Glimt
• RSC Anderlecht
• FCSB
• Ajax
• Real Sociedad
• Galatasaray
• AS Roma
• FC Viktoria Plzen
• Ferencvaros
• FC Porto
• AZ
• FC Midtjylland
• Royale Union SG
• PAOK
• FC Twente
• Fenerbahce

What did you think of Ajax vs Galatasaray? Should Ajax have played more of the “Total football” they are known for or was their counter-attacking strategy the key to victory? Leave a comment below or join the discussion on Instagram! Let us know your thoughts!