Ajax v. Arsenal 2-3 8/Aug/08

The almost traditional match of the legendary Ajax against the North London side is the second match of the already traditional Amsterdam Cup. As Wenger quoted, this title is perfect for the upcoming season, regarding top flight teams that we are likely to face in the Champions league if McLaren's FC Twente is beaten next week. With five encounters in the last four years the prospect at Dutch soil is very interesting for both sides. For the Dutch the new manager Van Basten will have to prove again his ability showed in the last couple of tournaments with "The Oranje".

And it was through Adebayor that the team came from behind and scoring two goals and setting up another to beat the home side. The struggle was tough and sometimes unnecesary but the will of some key players had the win inexorably. The starting XI was more approached to the current EPL line-up. The home side beagn touching the ball in the manner of the Arsenal or should we say otherwise? The Dutch side moved the ball around the pitch encountering its forwards very soon and unmarked, here Gallas did what he is supposed to do; loose his mark. The Arsenal looked confused and desorganized against a well organized Ajax. Few Walcott glimpses and some Stekelenburg saves were the main attraction before the lead came, at 34', through Suarez. A tremendous shot impossible to Almunia, entered the net after a mistake in the marking zone by guess who? William Gallas. The second goal came two minutes after with another mistake by the Frenchman who left Touré against two strikers. Huntelaar relentlessly finished to sank the Gunners with the help of our captain. The match turned harsh after some tough challenges, especially by Diaby. The Dutch talent outranged the English defense.



The second half started with a dismal display of talent by the Arsenal. Still the Gunners looked overwhelmed and distinct. And it was the zonal marking that provided the Dutch side such control of the ball. Kolo Touré did what Gallas was supposed to, and a true defensive midfielder was what Arsenal lacked. Van Persie discussion with Walcott was one of the several things that turned this 'friendly' match to a rispid mid-season like game. Through Adebayor the first goal arrived, at 67', with a fine header from an Eboué cross. Bendtner came off the bench to equalize minutes after, with a thunderous strike after a fine play by Manu. The visiting side deserved the equalizer due to a strong second half dominion. Ade came with the third goal of hte night, after a fine play with Denilson. Youngsters Ramset and Wilshere walked out of the bench having a nice display in short advice. The final minutes showed the inclussion of Senderos as a defensive midfielder. Certainly an interesting variant worth to observe, due to the absence of a defensive midfielder.