Ajax draw 0-0 with Heerenveen, finish fifth, enter Conference League play-offs

Ajax and Heerenveen played to a 0-0 draw in the final round of the VriendenLoterij Eredivisie on Saturday. The result left Ajax in fifth place in the league table. As a consequence, the Dutch champions will enter the play‑offs for a ticket to the Conference League qualifying round for the first time.

The match unfolded with both sides struggling to create clear chances. In the closing stages the game resembled a water ballet, with players exchanging passes without breaking the deadlock. Neither side managed to find the net.

Finishing fifth marks a departure from Ajax’s usual European qualification route, which normally secures a place in the Champions League or Europa League. The fifth‑place finish triggers the newly introduced play‑off system for the Conference League.

The play‑offs will determine which Dutch club receives a slot in the preliminary round of the UEFA Conference League. Ajax will now have to compete against other Eredivisie teams that finished below the top four.

The club’s coaching staff will assess the season’s shortcomings and prepare for the upcoming fixtures. Their aim is to secure European football despite the unexpected route.

The upcoming play‑offs will be closely watched by supporters, as Ajax seeks to return to the continent’s main competitions. Success in the play‑offs would restore the club’s presence in European tournaments for the next season.