Europa League Playoffs: Union Berlin Brush Past Ajax Into Last 16

Union Berlin achieved their biggest European victory to date as they cruised past Ajax Amsterdam 3-1 on Thursday to secure a spot in the Europa League round of 16.

The Berliners, who have only been in the Bundesliga since 2019, advanced 3-1 on aggregate after a goalless playoff first leg in Amsterdam, amid wild celebrations from their fans at the Alte Foersterei stadium.

Unbeaten in 2023, Union Berlin currently sit at joint top of the Bundesliga alongside Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund, and they showed their class with an efficient performance in the first half.

Robin Knoche put them in front with a penalty in the 20th minute, before Josip Juranovic's shot from outside the box slipped through the fingers of Ajax keeper Geronimo Rulli.

Although Ajax pulled a goal back in the 47th minute with Mohammed Kudus turning in a Steven Bergwijn cross, Union Berlin restored their two-goal lead just three minutes later.

Defender Danilho Doekhi's darting header sealed the victory for Union, who have conceded just three goals in the Europa League this season.

For Ajax, it was another disappointing night in the Europa League.

The former European champions had reached the knockout phase a record 10 times, but have now been eliminated at the first hurdle on six occasions.

Their frustration was compounded when Edson Alvarez was sent off following a second booking in stoppage time.

Union Berlin's high-flying form shows no signs of slowing down as they prepare to face Bayern Munich on Sunday in their battle for the top spot in the Bundesliga.

With their impressive performances in both domestic and European competitions, Union Berlin are emerging as a force to be reckoned with in German football.