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2. AFC Ajax
Ajax's exit from the Champions League this season was a surprise to many. They were comfortably placed at the top of the group until the beginning of Matchday 6, where they needed a win or a draw to qualify into the next round. They ultimately lost the match to Valencia, registering a spot for themselves in the Europa League round of 32.
Strength
The Dutch team scored 12 goals this term in the Champions League while conceding 6 in the process. Manager Erik ten Hag has done a great job in helping the squad deal with the loss of crucial players like Frenkie De Jong and Matthijs De Ligt. Their defence has been solid throughout the season, having conceded only 14 goals in their Eredivisie in 16 matches so far.
Daley Blind and Joel Veltman have formed a good partnership at the back for Ajax, while Dusan Tadic and Hakim Ziyech have resumed their good work in the goalscoring department from last season. The attacking and possession style of play remains the core strength of this Ajax side.
Weakness
While there is a good balance between the attack and defence, and youth and experience in the side, ten Hag would be hoping for some good fortune for his players who can make an impact in crunch situations of a tie.
Matthijs De Ligt and Frenkie De Jong came up with match-winning performances in the knockout phases against teams like Real Madrid and Juventus. Replacing those impact players has proved to be hard work for the Dutch side and it is one of the reasons why they have crashed out of the Champions League.
Considering the participation of teams such as Manchester United, Inter Milan, AS Roma and Arsenal in the competition, the Dutch club cannot be branded as favourites to win the Europa League.
Chances of winning: 3.5/5
