Robert Maaskant predicts Ajax to reach at least the semi‑finals

On Friday afternoon Ajax learned that the Conference League draw has paired them with Atalanta Bergamo, Getafe, Hajduk Split, FC Midtjylland, Sint‑Truidense VV and FC Thun, a grouping that the club’s technical director Robert Maaskant immediately described as far from easy.

The eight‑team path offers three home fixtures and three away matches for each opponent, mirroring the schedule used by Míchel’s squads in previous European campaigns. Such a balanced split intensifies the challenge, as clubs must perform consistently on both sides of the border.

Maaskant envisions a deep run

“I think Ajax will certainly go through. Moreover: I see Ajax at least reaching the semi‑finals,” Maaskant concluded on Friday De Voetbalkantine. He added that the draw feels like a Europa League draw in quality, but insisted Ajax are not less than the clubs that are present. The Dutch side, he argued, can still craft a notable European season.

The Spaniard had already warned that the draw resembled a Europa League draw, calling it particularly demanding. Míchel’s teams will therefore have to manage three home and three away games with equal focus.

Analysts weigh the draw’s hardness

Kees Luijckx argued, “For the Conference League this is unprecedentedly heavy. This is simply a Europa League draw, almost even heavier than AZ and NEC.” Danny Koevermans added, “I would have liked it if Getafe – Ajax had been. Now Ajax plays at home, but I would have liked to see how it would have gone in Spain again.” Both analysts suggest the path is tougher than typical Conference League assignments.

Nevertheless, Maaskant believes the season can still be a successful European campaign for the Amsterdammers. He sees the group stage as an opportunity to prove the club’s quality against strong opposition.

If Ajax can navigate this gauntlet, it would reinforce the Netherlands’ reputation for producing clubs capable of competing deep into continental tournaments. See how the Amsterdammers respond to a draw many deem comparable to a Europa League challenge.