Eintracht Frankfurt Dominates Ajax to Reach Europa League Quarterfinals

FRANKFURT, Germany – Eintracht Frankfurt advanced to the quarterfinals of the UEFA Europa League after a commanding 4-1 victory over Ajax Amsterdam on March 13, 2025. The win followed a 2-1 triumph in the first leg, securing a 6-2 aggregate score.

With 57,500 fans at the sold-out Deutsche Bank Park, Frankfurt’s performance was marked by early aggression and skillful plays. Jean-Mattéo Bahoya kicked off the scoring in the seventh minute, followed by two goals from Mario Götze (25th and 82nd minute) and a goal by Hugo Ekitiké (67th), solidifying their position as one of the tournament’s favorites.

Despite the late goal from Ajax’s Kenneth Taylor in the 78th minute, Frankfurt demonstrated control throughout the match. Götze’s final strike from nearly 40 meters out added flair to the scoreline.

Frankfurt head coach Dino Toppmöller made strategic changes ahead of the match. Key players, including starting goalkeeper Kevin Trapp, were sidelined due to injury, prompting the inclusion of Kaua Santos, who performed admirably.

“We played with confidence and showed our strengths,” Toppmöller said in a post-match interview. “The team bounced back from previous Bundesliga losses and proved their ability in Europe.”

Ajax’s lineup was significantly altered, with head coach Francesco Farioli making ten changes from the first leg. This rotation weakened their starting squad, allowing Frankfurt to capitalize on their vulnerabilities from the outset.

The match began with Frankfurt immediately pressuring Ajax, leading to Bahoya’s quick strike after a well-crafted play involving Ekitiké. Götze doubled the score shortly after, reacting expertly to a long pass from Robin Koch.

Ajax struggled to find their rhythm during the match. The team created limited chances, with a notable first-half opportunity from Steven Berghuis that missed the target. The guests were further hindered by defensive errors, which allowed Frankfurt to maintain a clear advantage.

Although Ajax attempted to regroup in the second half, the revitalization was short-lived as Ekitiké’s solo effort extended the lead to 3-0. Taylor’s late goal served only as a consolation as Götze capped the night with a commanding long-range shot, ensuring the home side’s advance to the next round.

“We have a strong desire to replicate our success from 2022,” Götze said. “The team is focused and ready for the challenges that lie ahead.”

Next, Eintracht Frankfurt is set to face Tottenham Hotspur in the quarterfinals, with the first match scheduled for April 10. The players are eager to build on their success as they continue their European journey.