UEFA Declares Koning Boudewijn Stadium Playable for Ajax Match

BRUSSELS, Belgium — Ajax will be able to compete against Union Sint-Gillis in the Europa League at the Koning Boudewijn Stadium on Thursday evening after UEFA initially raised concerns about the pitch’s condition. Following a subsequent inspection, the field has been deemed playable.

The Koning Boudewijn Stadium has faced ongoing issues with its playing surface, exacerbated by recent heavy rainfall in Belgium. To prepare the field for play, staff utilized leaf blowers to dry the damp areas.

“We have done everything possible with the people from the city of Brussels to make the field ready for play,” said Union CEO Philippe Bormans in an interview with Belgian outlet Sporza. “Today, after a second check, the field has been confirmed as playable.”

Ajax faced similar challenges last weekend when they played against Fortuna Sittard on a subpar field. Ajax coach Francesco Farioli acknowledged the recurring issue, stating at a press conference, “We need to be prepared. Unfortunately, this is not the first time we have played on such a surface.”

Farioli expressed concern for player safety, citing recent injuries due to poor field conditions. “We felt the effects last Sunday. Branco van den Boomen had complaints during the match against Riga. It’s unfortunate to put our players on this kind of pitch,” he said.

Ajax midfielder Steven Berghuis also weighed in on the situation, commenting, “I’ve seen better pitches. It’s a different ballgame, so we have to adapt our style of play accordingly. Both teams will have difficulties, as Union does not play on this type of field weekly.”

He emphasized the importance of maintaining a good playing surface: “The two most important things are a good field and a quality ball. While this is disappointing in the Europa League, we’ve worked hard to get here, and it is what it is.”

The Koning Boudewijn Stadium was chosen as an alternative venue because the Joseph Marienstadion, the home of Union Sint-Gillis, does not meet UEFA’s standards.

The two teams are set to meet again next week for the return leg of their Europa League tie.

In addition to pitch concerns, Ajax will be without captain Jordan Henderson in Thursday’s match due to injury. He sustained a hamstring injury during last weekend’s game. “He will not be fit in time for this match,” a team spokesperson confirmed.

Branco van den Boomen, who might have replaced Henderson, is likewise unable to play due to fitness issues. However, Mika Godts, who has returned from a hamstring injury, trained with the squad today. Davy Klaassen may also make his Europa League debut.

Farioli has included young talents Sean Steur, Rayane Bounida, and Jorthy Mokio in the squad. Mokio made his starting debut against Fortuna Sittard last weekend.