Ajax ended their wait for a Champions League win in the 2025-26 season by defeating Qarabag 4-2. The Eredivisie team, facing the possibility of six consecutive losses in UEFA's top competition, turned
the game around late on. Oscar Gloukh and Anton Gaaei scored twice in three minutes during the second half, with Gloukh securing his brace just before the final whistle.
Despite starting well, Ajax fell behind in the 10th minute. Elvin Cafarquliyev's long pass was misjudged by Ko Itakura, allowing Camilo Duran to lob over Vitezslav Jaros. Qarabag pushed for another goal, but missed chances from Abdellah Zoubir and Duran kept them from extending their lead. Kasper Dolberg then equalised for Ajax with a powerful shot into the bottom-left corner six minutes before halftime.
Just two minutes into the second half, Qarabag regained their lead. Cafarquliyev's deflected cross reached Matheus Silva, who scored with a first-time shot. Ajax had an opportunity to level when Don-Angelo Konadu directed Gaaei's cross at Mateusz Kochalski, but they soon equalised through Gloukh. He cut inside from the left and found the near post with a right-footed strike.
The match saw Ajax field two players aged 17 or younger—Jorthy Mokio and Sean Steur—for the first time in a Champions League fixture. Their youthful lineup performed admirably to keep play-off hopes alive. Despite being pegged back twice, Ajax deserved their win, recording an expected goals (xG) total of 1.61 from 20 shots compared to Qarabag's 1.09 from seven attempts.
Caretaker manager Fred Grim witnessed more success as Gaaei scored a stunning goal after being set up by Konadu. Gloukh then sealed victory with a composed finish in the 90th minute. This marked a positive return to European scoring form for Ajax, who had only netted once—a Wout Weghorst penalty against Chelsea—before this match.
Gloukh was instrumental in Ajax's attacking display, leading his team with five shots, four chances created, and 15 passes in the final third. He also topped totals for crosses (six) and dribbles (three), while recovering possession ten times—more than any other player on the pitch.
Ajax’s performance not only ended their losing streak but also showcased their potential moving forward in Europe’s elite competition. The young squad demonstrated resilience and skill that could prove vital as they aim for further success this season.
