AZ vs. Ajax

AZ were clearly the better team in the first half, and deserved more than the one goal they scored through Mounir El Hamdaoui, following a through-ball from Brett Holman in the 28th minute.

Ajax manager Martin Jol made a tactical change at the start of the second half, bringing on midfielder Gabri for attacker Marko Pantelic.

That decision soon paid off, as it allowed the visitors to gain control and eventually turn things around. AZ keeper Sergio Romero failed to parry a distance strike from Urby Emanuelson in the 57th minute, and Luis Suarez did well to control a cross from Dennis Rommedahl and find the target one minute later.

Gregory van de Wiel added a third in minute 65, and a Suarez shot set the score to 4-1 in the first minute of added time.

Graziano Pelle netted a consolation goal in minute 92, but it was much too little, and much too late for the home team.