Ajax Survive Sion Scare with Dramatic 4-2 Comeback

Ajax survived a fiery scare in the Swiss Alps, recovering from a goal down to overpower FC Sion 4-2 in a pulsating UEFA Europa Conference League playoff second leg. The Dutch giants rode waves of pressure in Stade Tourbillon before their class ultimately told, but not before being given a genuine fright by Didier Tholot’s battling side.

FC Sion’s Early Blitz Rattles Ajax

The hosts exploded from the traps, harrying Ajax into uncharacteristic errors. Their aggression earned a 30th-minute yellow for Baltazar – a booking that would later force the midfielder off – but the real damage came four minutes later. Ali Kabacalman’s threaded pass found Franck Surdez, who coolly slotted past Marc-André ter Stegen to send the raucous home crowd into raptures. Worse followed for Ajax when Youri Regeer saw yellow two minutes after the goal, forcing Michel into a halftime substitution.

Ajax Revival Sparked by Brandt Brilliance

Whatever Michel said at the break worked instantly. Julian Brandt announced Ajax’s resurgence seven minutes after the restart, collecting possession 25 yards out before unleashing an unstoppable drive into the top corner. The equalizer shattered Sion’s resistance. By the hour mark, Marcos Leonardo had turned the tie, tapping home after neat approach work to complete the comeback.

Penalty Drama Before Ajax Kill the Tie

Just as Ajax looked comfortable, Sion won a 72nd-minute penalty which Ilyas Chouaref converted with nerve. The ephemeral hope lasted exactly 120 seconds. Substitute Tijani Arokodare – on the pitch a mere minute – punished hesitant defending with a thunderous finish. Davy Klaassen’s late fourth, assisted by Arokodare, finally broke Swiss resolve.

What This Means for Both Sides

For Ajax, this was a character-building win after last week’s nervy first leg. Their 62% possession and 23 shots (8 on target) showcased dominance regained after early struggles. Sion exit with pride – their 8 shots inside Ajax’s box proving they belonged at this level. Michel’s men advance to the group stage where their attacking firepower makes them instant contenders.