Ajax are into the last 16 of the Champions League for the first time since 2006 after a 2-0 victory over AEK Athens in Greece. 

Ajax headed to Greece knowing that a victory would seal their place in the last 16 of the Champions League ahead of Benfica’s trip to Bayern Munich. Before kick-off, there were horrible scenes as home fans attacked the Ajax section with flares.

When the action got underway, Ajax dominated possession but they struggled to break down the AEK defence, which limited the visitors to two chances. A David Neres header which was straight at the goalkeeper before Lasse Schone’s free-kick flew just over the bar.

In the 63rd minute, Ajax went close when Donny van de Beek slid a cross against the outside of the post. However, five minutes later, Ajax had the lead and a man advantage. Marko Livaja saw a second yellow for a handball in the box and Dusan Tadic stroked home the spot-kick to make it 1-0.

In the 72nd minute, it was 2-0 as a move including Neres and Klaas-Jan Huntelaar ended with Tadic striking the ball into the net for his second and tenth goal since joining Ajax in the summer.

Lucas Boye tested Onana with a strike from range but Ajax comfortably saw out the rest of the match and will take their place in the last 16 draw when it is made on the 17th of December. In two weeks, Ajax host Bayern Munich in the group’s final round and the tie will decide who goes through as group winners.




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