After the eight-goal thriller between Ajax and Heerenveen in the Eredivise last weekend, the KNVB Cup quarter-final rendition promised much in the way of goals and excitement. Having controlled the majority of the league game, centre-back Kik Pierie’s last-minute equaliser for Heerenveen came as a crushing blow to Erik ten Hag’s side as they failed to capitalise on rare dropped points from title rivals PSV Eindhoven. Ajax grabbed the opportunity for revenge with both hands as they set out on a three-goal demolition of Jan Olde Riekerink’s team.
Team news
Heerenveen lined up as expected by having no changes to the game last weekend. Ajax on the other hand rotated slightly with Kristensen, Onana and Huntelaar returning to the fold. Centre-back Lisandro Magallan received his first competitive start after joining from Boca Juniors earlier in the window.
Perhaps most interestingly, regular right-back Noussair Mazraoui started in central midfield for the first time. It could be intriguing to see him utilised here more often. This would take some pressure off Frenkie de Jong and allow the promotion of Sergino Dest next season, who has been flourishing as a full-back for Jong Ajax.


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