Irish media balance fear and hope ahead of Ajax tie

Irish media look with both fear and optimism to the upcoming two‑legged tie between Ajax and Shelbourne FC in the third qualifying round of the Conference League, after Ajax recorded an 8‑2 aggregate victory over FK Vojvodina.

Ajax secured its place with a convincing Thursday‑evening win over Serbian side FK Vojvodina, posting a 4‑1 result on the night and an 8‑2 aggregate score.

Shelbourne entered the tie after proving too strong for Estonian club Nomme JK Kalju across two matches, earning the right to face the Dutch giants.

RTÉ Sport wrote, “Their reward is a two‑legged tie against the European powerhouse Ajax, who won 8‑2 over FK Vojvodina,” expressing admiration for the Amsterdammers.

Shelbourne will host the first leg at Tolka Park, with UEFA granting permission even though the stadium does not meet the usual requirements for a third‑qualifying‑round match.

Other Irish outlets also voiced admiration, noting the prestige of meeting Ajax in a European competition.

The42 added that Shelbourne is preparing for a “prestigious European duel with the Dutch powerhouse Ajax next week,” describing Ajax as a four‑time Europa Cup winner and confirming the first leg on Thursday 6 August in Amsterdam, with the return on 13 August at Tolka Park.

The Irish Independent highlighted the financial upside, estimating Shelbourne’s earnings from the tie at €900,000, while noting the club’s chance to meet the 1995 Europa Cup winner in the Johan Cruyff Arena, a venue that holds 55,000 spectators.

The contrast between Irish apprehension and the lure of European prestige underscores how the tie offers both a daunting challenge and a lucrative, memorable experience for Shelbourne and its supporters.