Benfica Defeat Ajax 2-0 in Crucial Champions League “Reverse Six-Pointer” — Itakura’s Anchor Role Under Spotlight
Table of Contents
Match Overview: Benfica Win the “Reverse Six-Pointer”
Ajax and Benfica entered Matchday 5 of the UEFA Champions League league phase with identical records: four games, four defeats, and zero points. This clash was widely labeled as a “reverse six-pointer,” where both sides desperately needed a win to avoid finishing bottom of the group. The match took place in Amsterdam, with Ajax fielding Japanese international Ko Itakura as an anchor in a new tactical setup.
Despite the home advantage and a changed approach, Ajax were unable to halt their downward spiral. Benfica, led by José Mourinho, executed a disciplined match plan to secure a crucial 2-0 victory.
First Half: Early Blow from Benfica
Benfica shocked Ajax only six minutes in. A right-side corner kick led to a loose ball at the far post, and Samuel Dahl reacted fastest, delivering a powerful left-footed strike that opened the scoring.
Ajax struggled to find rhythm but gradually created chances through physical duels and transitions. In added time of the first half, Ko Itakura won a crucial challenge that sparked one of Ajax’s best opportunities, but the final pass and finish were lacking.
The first half ended 1-0 to Benfica, leaving Ajax with work to do.
Second Half: Ajax’s Missed Chances and Late Collapse
Ajax began the second half with urgency. In the 53rd minute, Davy Klaassen found space for a clear chance, but he failed to convert, summarizing Ajax’s recurring issues in front of goal.
As the minutes ticked away, Ajax pushed higher, eventually shifting to a back three in search of an equalizer. This aggressive approach left significant gaps behind the defensive line, and Benfica made full use of it.
In the 90th minute, Leandro Barreiro exchanged a quick one-two, slipped behind Itakura, and slotted home the decisive second goal. The late strike sealed Ajax’s fifth consecutive defeat.
Ko Itakura’s Role and Influence
Ko Itakura was deployed as a single pivot—an anchor tasked with both protecting the defense and initiating build-up play. His physical presence and timing in challenges stood out, especially in the first half, where several duels helped Ajax progress.
However, as the team shifted to a three-back system in the second half, Itakura often found himself covering large spaces. This ultimately contributed to the late Benfica goal, where he was bypassed with a quick combination.
Individually, Itakura showed discipline and work rate, but Ajax's structural issues overshadowed his contribution.
What This Result Means for Both Clubs
Benfica’s long-awaited victory lifts them off the bottom, offering a glimmer of hope heading into the final matchday. Mourinho’s side demonstrated resilience and clinical finishing at crucial moments.
For Ajax, however, the situation has become alarming. Five straight losses leave them firmly at the bottom of the group, their worst-ever start to a Champions League campaign. Defensive lapses, inconsistent execution, and lack of confidence continue to plague the team.
The pressure now intensifies on the coaching staff, players, and club leadership to find solutions before the season unravels further.
Conclusion: Benfica Rise, Ajax Sink Deeper
The match that was expected to be a turning point for one of the struggling giants ended with Benfica taking a deserved 2-0 win. Ajax, despite tactical changes and the efforts of players like Ko Itakura, remain winless and rooted to the bottom.
As the Champions League league phase moves toward its conclusion, Benfica’s momentum grows, while Ajax face their toughest challenge yet: rebuilding confidence, stability, and identity.
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