Overview
- Ajax beat FC Groningen 5-2 at the Euroborg on Sunday, with Julian Brandt and Jorthy Mokio each scoring twice and Aaron Bouwman also on the scoresheet.
- Míchel Sánchez named a significantly reshuffled starting XI, with Marc ter Stegen recalled to goal and later saving a stoppage-time penalty to preserve the win.
- Teen central defenders Dies Janse and Aaron Bouwman started together and drew public praise for strong duels and composure, with Janse’s renewal through 2030 underlining Ajax’s long-term faith in him.
- Several pundits singled out Marcos Leonardo for poor basic technique and slow first touches despite his work rate, while commentators also criticized Groningen’s defensive handling of set pieces and transitions.
- The result halts Ajax’s recent dip after a draw with NEC and a Conference League loss, gives fringe players like Yves Bissouma a debut platform, and is likely to shape selection and confidence during a congested run of fixtures.