UCL: Ajax Seal Last 16 Spot To Become 'Dark Horse' In Europe

Ajax are becoming a dark horse after reaching the Champions League last 16 with a 3-1 win at Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday, with the hosts left fuming at Mats Hummels' controversial first-half dismissal.

"We want to annoy Europe's elite teams. We're not saying we are favourites, but nobody wants to get Ajax in the draw," Ten Hag told broadcaster DAZN after the Dutch side came from behind to win in Germany and secure their place in the knockout rounds.

Dortmund were furious at English referee Michael Oliver's decision to send off Hummels after a foul on Ajax midfielder Antony, which they insisted was too harsh.

"I have no idea how you can give a red card in that situation. I have no idea how a referee who is supposedly at Champions League level can make that decision," Hummels said after the match.

He also accused Antony of play-acting, saying the Brazilian had been "grossly unsporting".

"He's a great footballer, but he needs to learn to be a sportsman," said Hummels.

Antony went on to play a crucial role, setting up all three goals as Ajax turned the game around in the last 20 minutes.

"We defended valiantly, but it's hard when you only have ten men," said Dortmund captain Marco Reus.

Dortmund will be without Hummels when they travel to Portugal to face Sporting Lisbon on November 24, a game which could decide which of the two will join Ajax in the last 16.

While the Dutch side are sitting pretty with four wins in four, Dortmund are level on points with third-placed Sporting, who beat Besiktas 4-0 on Wednesday.