Olympiacos have written another golden chapter in their European history, securing a famous 2–1 victory over Ajax in Amsterdam to progress to the next phase of the UEFA Champions League.
In a high-stakes encounter at the Johan Cruyff Arena, the Greek champions showed resilience, composure and belief to eliminate the Dutch giants, earning a place in the Champions League play-offs, where they will face either Atalanta or Bayer Leverkusen for a spot in the Round of 16.
The match began with sustained pressure from Ajax, who dominated possession and created the clearer chances in the first half. Olympiacos goalkeeper Konstantinos Tzolakis was called into action early, while Ajax squandered a gilt-edged opportunity midway through the half. A goal by Kasper Dolberg was later ruled out for offside, and a late handball appeal against Olympiacos defender Giulian Biancone was dismissed following a VAR check.
Despite defensive challenges, Olympiacos struck first after the break against the run of play. In the 52nd minute, a slick attacking move involving Mehdi Taremi released Gelson Martins, who finished clinically to give the visitors a 1–0 lead and shift the momentum of the contest.
Ajax responded with renewed urgency and were awarded a penalty in the 69th minute after a handball decision following an on-field review. Dolberg converted from the spot to restore parity and set up a tense final 20 minutes.
But Olympiacos refused to retreat. In the 79th minute, a corner kick delivered by Cicinho was met by Ese, who headed home decisively to restore the Greek side’s lead, scoring his first goal for the club and sending the travelling supporters into raptures.
The closing stages tested Olympiacos’ resolve, with Panos Retsos producing a crucial goal-line clearance late in the match to deny Ajax an equaliser and preserve the historic result.
Under the guidance of head coach José Luis Mendilibar, Olympiacos displayed maturity and tactical discipline, sealing qualification in emphatic fashion and reaffirming their reputation as one of Greece’s most formidable European competitors.
The Champions League play-off draw is scheduled for Friday, 30 January, with Olympiacos set to face either Atalanta or Bayer Leverkusen for a place among Europe’s elite in the Round of 16.
