Disastrous year. Ajax left the Dutch Cup after lost by a team from the fourth division

Ajax's difficult 2023 culminated in disappointment as the Dutch football giants exited the country's Cup (KNVB Cup) during the Round of 32, falling to a team from the fourth-tier division, Hercules.

Throughout the match, the Amsterdam team trailed 0:2, later rallying to equalize by the 89th minute. However, they conceded a third goal in stoppage time, exiting the tournament in ignominy.

Ajax is enduring a severely disappointing season, languishing in fifth place in the Eredivisie standings. In the Europa League, the team finished third in their group and is set to compete in the Europa Conference League playoffs in February.

October witnessed a managerial change at the club. Under Maurice Steijn's guidance, Ajax struggled in the relegation zone, leading to his replacement by John van't Schip. Following the appointment of the new coach, the team gradually emerged from crisis, making strides in the Dutch league standings.

Ajax stands as the most decorated club in the Netherlands, boasting 36 Eredivisie titles.

• Dutch Cup. Round of 32

Hercules – Ajax 3:2

Goals: Peters, 16, 66, Grotenberg, 90+3 – Brobbey, 83, Akpom, 89