PEC Zwolle vs Ajax Result

Eredivisie · Netherlands

PEC Zwolle

0 - 0

Full Time

Ajax

📍 MAC³PARK Stadion, Zwolle

🗓️ Sunday, 1 Mar 2026 at 11:15

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1 - 2

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Actual

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❌Result

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❌O/U 2.5

❌Score

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Stalemate in Zwolle: Ajax Held to Goalless Draw by Resolute Hosts

PEC Zwolle and Ajax played out a tense 0-0 draw at the MAC³PARK Stadion, with both sides unable to break the deadlock despite contrasting approaches. Ajax dominated possession, controlling 60% of the ball and dictating the tempo for large stretches, but found themselves frustrated by a well-organized Zwolle defense and a lack of clinical edge in the final third. Zwolle, meanwhile, relied on defensive discipline and looked to threaten from set pieces, winning an impressive 12 corners but rarely testing Maarten Paes in the Ajax goal. Both teams produced just two shots on target apiece, highlighting the lack of cutting edge in attack. The match was punctuated by physical battles, with five yellow cards shown in total, as Zwolle’s midfield trio worked tirelessly to disrupt Ajax’s rhythm. Despite late tactical tweaks and substitutions from both benches, neither side could carve out a decisive opportunity, leaving the points shared in a result that ultimately reflected the balance of play.

PEC Zwolle

6.5/10

Zwolle delivered a disciplined defensive display, absorbing Ajax’s pressure and showing resilience throughout. Although they saw less of the ball (40% possession), the hosts made their presence felt on set pieces, forcing 12 corners and looking to capitalize on any Ajax lapses. However, their attacking threat was limited, with only two shots on target and few clear chances created. The midfield trio worked hard to contain Ajax’s creative players, and the back four remained compact, minimizing space for Ajax’s forwards. Despite a lack of offensive spark, Zwolle’s organization and commitment earned them a valuable point against one of the league’s heavyweights.

Key Players

Simon Graves: Led the defense with composure, making key interventions to deny Ajax’s forwards.

Thijs Oosting: Worked tirelessly in midfield, helping to disrupt Ajax’s build-up play.

Tom de Graaff: Made the necessary saves to preserve the clean sheet.

Strengths

Defensive organizationSet-piece threat (12 corners)Midfield work rate

Weaknesses

Limited attacking creativityLow shot outputStruggled to retain possession

Ajax

6.8/10

Ajax controlled the match territorially, enjoying 60% possession and dictating play from midfield. Their 4-3-3 formation allowed them to circulate the ball efficiently, but they struggled to convert dominance into clear-cut chances, registering just two shots on target from six attempts. The front three, including Wout Weghorst and Mika Godts, found space at a premium against Zwolle’s compact defense, while Oscar Gloukh and Davy Klaassen probed for openings from midfield. Ajax’s defensive unit was rarely troubled, but their inability to break down a stubborn Zwolle side will be a concern as they chase crucial points in the Eredivisie run-in.

Key Players

Oscar Gloukh: Looked to unlock Zwolle’s defense with incisive passing from midfield.

Josip Šutalo: Helped maintain Ajax’s defensive solidity, keeping Zwolle’s attack at bay.

Maarten Paes: Dealt calmly with Zwolle’s limited efforts on goal.

Strengths

Ball possession and controlDefensive stabilityMidfield passing combinations

Weaknesses

Lack of attacking penetrationFew shots on targetStruggled to create big chances

Key Moments

18' — Yellow Card

Thijs Oosting booked for a tactical foul in midfield, setting the tone for Zwolle’s combative approach.

34' — Corner

Zwolle force their sixth corner, highlighting their set-piece focus but fail to capitalize.

52' — Yellow Card

Josip Šutalo shown a yellow for a late challenge, reflecting Ajax’s frustration.

68' — Substitution

Ajax introduce fresh legs up front in search of a breakthrough, but Zwolle’s defense holds firm.

79' — Yellow Card

Younes Namli receives a booking as tempers flare late on.

Tactical Analysis

Both sides lined up in a 4-3-3 formation, but their approaches diverged significantly. Ajax sought to dominate possession, building patiently from the back and looking to exploit spaces between Zwolle’s lines. However, Zwolle’s compact defensive block and diligent midfield tracking limited Ajax’s ability to play through the center, forcing them wide and often resulting in harmless crosses or blocked shots. Zwolle, meanwhile, prioritized defensive solidity and counter-attacks, focusing on set pieces as their main attacking outlet, as evidenced by their 12 corners. Substitutions from Ajax in the second half aimed to inject more pace and directness, but Zwolle’s defensive shape remained intact. The hosts’ willingness to commit tactical fouls and pick up bookings further disrupted Ajax’s rhythm, while neither side managed to create sustained pressure in the opponent’s box.

Turning Point

Ajax’s double substitution around the 68th minute injected urgency but failed to alter the pattern, as Zwolle’s defense stood resolute and denied any late winner.

Man of the Match

Simon Graves

Anchored Zwolle’s defense with a commanding performance, making crucial interventions and organizing the back line to frustrate Ajax’s attack.