Chelsea 5-1 Ajax: Post-match review, Stats, Key moments

Dive into Bwin's post-match review of Chelsea 5-1 Ajax in the Champions League on Wednesday, 22 October 2025, with stats, key moments and our take on the match.

Chelsea's commanding 5-1 victory over Ajax at home was a testament to their current form, extending their winning streak in the Champions League. The match saw Chelsea score early and often, with goals in the 18th, 27th, 45th (twice from penalties), and 48th minutes, showcasing their clinical finishing. Ajax managed a solitary penalty in the 33rd minute, but it was insufficient against Chelsea's relentless attack. This result was not surprising given Chelsea's recent 1-0 win against Benfica, indicating their strong momentum, while Ajax's loss to Olympique Marseille 0-4 highlighted their struggles away from home.

Estêvão was a standout performer for Chelsea, contributing significantly to their victory. His goal and key passes were crucial in maintaining Chelsea's dominance throughout the match. Ajax, on the other hand, failed to build on their previous performances, with their defence unable to cope with Chelsea's offensive prowess. This defeat marks a continuation of Ajax's poor run in the competition, underscoring the need for a strategic overhaul.

The statistics from the match align well with the final scoreline, with Chelsea's 66% possession and 11 corners reflecting their control of the game. Ajax's lack of corners and lower possession at 34% indicate their struggle to create meaningful attacks. Surprisingly, Ajax had a higher successful dribbles percentage at 55% compared to Chelsea's 39%, suggesting some individual skill but little team cohesion. The red card for Ajax and the two penalties for Chelsea further highlight the disparity in discipline and effectiveness between the two sides.

Chelsea's early goal in the 18th minute set the tone for the match, with Marc Guiu finding the net and putting Ajax on the back foot. The subsequent goals in the 27th and 45th minutes, including two penalties, showcased Chelsea's ability to capitalise on Ajax's defensive errors. The quick goal after halftime in the 48th minute sealed the victory, demonstrating Chelsea's relentless pressure. Ajax's only response was a penalty in the 33rd minute, which did little to change the course of the game.

These key moments were pivotal in determining the outcome, with Chelsea's early and consistent scoring demoralising Ajax. The penalties in particular were crucial, as they not only added to the scoreline but also highlighted Ajax's defensive frailties. Chelsea's ability to score immediately after halftime further underscored their dominance and Ajax's inability to mount a comeback.

Chelsea lined up in a 4-3-3 formation, with Filip Jørgensen in goal and a backline of Moisés Caicedo, Wesley Fofana, Tosin Adarabioyo, and Jorrel Hato. The midfield trio of Facundo Buonanotte, Roméo Lavia, and Enzo Fernández provided stability and creativity, while the front three of Estêvão, Marc Guiu, and Jamie Gittens were instrumental in the attack. The lineup showed no surprises, with key players performing as expected. The impact of substitutions was minimal, as the starting XI managed the game effectively.

Ajax deployed a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Remko Pasveer in goal and a defence consisting of Lucas Rosa, Ko Itakura, Josip Sutalo, and Youri Baas. The midfield was anchored by James McConnell and Kenneth Taylor, with Raúl Moro, Oscar Gloukh, and Mika Godts supporting striker Wout Weghorst. The lineup was as expected, but the performance was lacklustre, with the red card to a defender further hampering their efforts. Substitutions did not significantly alter the course of the game, as Ajax struggled to regain control.

Estêvão earned Bwin's Man of the Match award for his pivotal role in Chelsea's victory. His goal was crucial in maintaining Chelsea's lead, while his two key passes demonstrated his ability to create scoring opportunities. Despite not registering any assists or big chances created, his overall contribution was significant in securing the win for Chelsea.

Recent Champions League matches:

• Win: 5-1 vs Ajax (H)
• Win: 1-0 vs Benfica (H)

Recent Champions League matches:

• Loss: 1-5 vs Chelsea (A)
• Loss: 0-4 vs Olympique Marseille (A)

Chelsea's league position has improved to 12th with 6 points following their convincing win. Their next match is against Sunderland on October 25, 2025, at 15:00. This result should boost their confidence as they approach the game, likely adopting an aggressive strategy to continue their winning momentum.

Ajax find themselves in 36th place with 0 points, highlighting their dire situation. Their next fixture is against FC Twente on October 26, 2025, at 11:15. This heavy defeat may force Ajax to reassess their tactics and team selection, aiming to salvage their season with a much-needed win.

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