Ajax Exposes Celtic’s Defensive Flaws in Crushing Como Cup Win

• by Arlen Fitzpatrick
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Ajax Runs Riot Against Celtic in the Como Cup

Any Celtic fan tuning into the Como Cup clash against Ajax probably felt a wave of déjà vu. Early hope gave way to disappointment as Ajax systematically took apart Celtic’s defense, strolling to a 5-1 victory on July 24, 2025. This wasn’t just another friendly loss — it was a loud warning just weeks before Celtic’s Champions League qualifiers.

Things actually started brightly for the Scottish side. Celtic looked sharp, rattling the crossbar twice before Ajax even found their rhythm. But football doesn’t reward near-misses, and when Ajax’s Steven Berghuis unleashed a powerful long-range shot past Celtic’s keeper in the 16th minute, the mood shifted. Celtic hit back quickly, with Yang Hyun-Jun calmly finishing to level the score and reignite their hopes.

The sense of balance didn’t last long after halftime. Ajax walked out for the second half with clear intent, and Celtic’s resistance melted. Davy Klaassen pounced on a rebound to put Ajax back in front, a moment that seemed to suck the energy from Celtic’s back line. From that point, Ajax seized control, moving the ball with confidence. Celtic’s defense underestimated Berghuis again, allowing him the space to bag his second after a poor clearance under pressure. Aaron Bouwman then joined the party with a curler from distance, and substitute Rayane Bounida capped the scoring, all while Celtic’s defenders stood watching.

• Ajax showcased quick passing, high pressing, and weren’t afraid to shoot from range — exposing a Celtic side that quickly ran out of answers.
• Celtic’s back four lacked coordination and struggled to pick up runners, especially after Ajax changed tactics following the break.
• Keeper Joe Hart (or his replacement for the day) found himself exposed time and again, let down by poor tracking and slack marking.

Celtic’s Pre-Season Worries Before Champions League Kickoff

This defeat isn’t just a number on the scoreboard for Celtic. It’s a flashing red sign. After a campaign last year spent wrangling with defensive lapses, manager Brendan Rodgers (or his 2025 replacement) will be in full analysis mode. Pre-season friendlies are supposed to build confidence and test tactical ideas, but conceding five — and the way those goals were given up — will do the opposite.

Most troubling was Celtic’s inability to readjust once Ajax grew into the game. The Dutch side made subtle tweaks at halftime, switching up their midfield shape and making use of width. Celtic never responded, and the gaps only widened as the half wore on. For fans and coaches alike, watching the second half felt like waiting for the next mistake — and Ajax capitalized every time.

The lesson? If Celtic wants to make any noise in this year’s Champions League, they’ve got to sort out the back line fast. Ajax, meanwhile, march confidently to the Como Cup final, set for July 27 against hosts Como 1907. If their attacking form holds, they’ll be tough to beat in Italy — and Celtic will be left reflecting on the hard truths only a pre-season thrashing can provide.