Match 4: AFC Ajax vs. Olympiacos – Late Goal Secures Friendly Win for Ajax

AFC Ajax claimed a 1-0 victory over Olympiacos in a pre-season international club friendly at the Johan Cruijff ArenA on 18 July 2026. The match, which kicked off at 21:30, was a test for two sides with European ambitions. Ajax dominated possession but needed a moment of quality to break the deadlock.

Match Overview

Ajax controlled the early stages with their trademark possession-based style, but Olympiacos sat deep and looked to counter, particularly through winger Daniel Podence. The first half ended goalless, with Ajax's Brajan Gruda having a goal disallowed for offside. The Greek side grew into the game after the interval, but Ajax's defensive organisation held firm.

Key Moment

The winning goal arrived in the 72nd minute. Midfielder Kenneth Taylor threaded a pass through to substitute Chuba Akpom, who turned his defender and scored with a composed finish into the far corner. Olympiacos pushed for an equaliser but were unable to test Ajax goalkeeper Diant Ramaj, who kept a clean sheet in his first pre-season appearance.

Season Implications

For Ajax, this friendly continued their preparations for the Eredivisie and Europa League qualifying rounds. The result shows progress in defensive solidity, an area new coach Francesco Farioli has emphasised. Olympiacos, under manager José Luis Mendilibar, will take positives from a competitive performance but will need to improve finishing before their Greek Super League start.