Ajax stages dramatic comeback to secure draw against Bodo Glimt
In a thrilling Europa Conference League play-off match, Ajax pulled off a stunning comeback to salvage a draw against Norwegian side Bodo Glimt. The visitors took a shock 2-0 lead courtesy of Albert Gronbaek’s brace, but Ajax fought back with two goals in injury time.
Late drama unfolded as Branco van den Boomen converted a penalty to narrow the deficit, and then Steven Berghuis found the back of the net in the 97th minute, leveling the score. The result leaves the tie finely balanced heading into the second leg next Thursday.
Sending off adds to Bodo Glimt’s challenge
Bodo Glimt’s task in the second leg became even more challenging after Odin Luras Bjortuft was shown a red card for conceding a penalty in the 91st minute. The penalty decision was made following a video assistant referee check, with on-pitch official Antonio Nobre also reviewing the incident on a pitchside monitor.
Jordan Henderson’s European return
This match marked Jordan Henderson’s return to European competition since his time with Liverpool. Henderson, who captained the Reds to Champions League glory in 2019, moved to Al-Ettifaq in July before joining Ajax in the January transfer window. He came close to scoring his first goal for Ajax but was denied by a save from Bodo Glimt’s goalkeeper Kjetil Haug.
Ajax’s turbulent season
Ajax, a club with a storied European history, has faced a challenging season. They sacked manager Maurice Steijn in October and finished third in their Europa League group, which was topped by Brighton. As a result, Ajax dropped into the Europa Conference League. With six major European honours under their belt, including four Champions League titles, Ajax will be aiming to make their mark in this competition.
Round-up of other Conference League matches
In other Europa Conference League matches, Sturm Graz defeated Slovan Bratislava 4-1, Molde won 3-2 against Legia Warsaw, and Olympiakos and Maccabi Haifa secured 1-0 home victories against Ferencvaros and Gent, respectively. Dinamo Zagreb clinched an impressive 1-0 win over Real Betis with a late Bruno Petkovic penalty, while Eintracht Frankfurt drew 2-2 with Union St-Gilloise. The match between Servette and Ludogorets ended goalless.
The road to the last 16
The second legs of these ties will take place next Thursday, determining the teams that will advance to the last 16. The winners will face Aston Villa, Club Bruges, Fenerbahce, Fiorentina, Lille, Maccabi Tel Aviv, PAOK, or Viktoria Plzen, who finished top in the group phase.
Conclusion
Ajax’s dramatic comeback against Bodo Glimt in the Europa Conference League play-off sets up an exciting second leg. With two goals in injury time, Ajax demonstrated their fighting spirit and determination to salvage a draw. As the battle for the last 16 heats up in the competition, Ajax will be looking to build on this momentum and secure their place among Europe’s elite.