Ajax and AZ deliver appalling top-flight clash: 'There was nothing in it that resembled top football'

Analysts Kwakman and Perez criticised the match as lacking intensity and quality, with Ajax's front five making far fewer sprints than PSV's in their 7-0 win.

Analysts Kees Kwakman and Kenneth Perez were highly critical of Ajax's 1-0 victory over AZ, describing it as a match of "appalling" quality that bore no resemblance to top-level football. Kwakman noted that while Ajax started well, they failed to maintain standards, particularly given both clubs had a midweek break. He highlighted a lack of intensity, poor ball handling, and few genuine scoring opportunities or counter-attacking threats.

Perez agreed emphatically, stating there was "nothing in it" that resembled international top football. He singled out Abdellah Ouazane and Youri Baas as exceptions to the poor overall display. Kwakman pointed out that Ajax and AZ's front five made significantly fewer sprints than PSV's players in their 7-0 demolition of Willem II, and criticised the constant mistakes compounded by missing intensity. He noted Ajax only created danger late on through counter-attacks involving Gloukh, Leonardo and Berghuis.

Perez also took issue with Ajax manager Míchel and his technical staff, observing more intensity on the sideline than on the pitch. While acknowledging the coaching staff showed energy, he found their behaviour irritating and called for them to "glue themselves to their seats."