Ajax debutant Tsygankov criticised after PSV defeat
ESPN analysts questioned Viktor Tsygankov’s defensive effort after the winger came off the bench during Ajax’s 3-1 home loss to PSV.
Ajax suffered a 3-1 defeat at home to reigning champions PSV in the first major Eredivisie clash of the season on Saturday evening. Viktor Tsygankov made his Ajax debut from the bench, entering after an hour with the Amsterdam side trailing 2-1.
The winger struggled to make a positive impression. Commentator Vincent Schildkamp suggested during the game that Tsygankov could not cope with its tempo, while Karim El Ahmadi highlighted a moment when the Ukrainian lost possession after hesitating on the ball.
Tsygankov also came under scrutiny for his role in PSV’s third goal, scored by Esmir Bajraktarevic. El Ahmadi said the Ajax newcomer left the scorer completely unmarked and appeared to be walking as the attack developed. Marciano Vink offered an even harsher assessment on ESPN, saying: “This is how a youth player defends,” while Hugo Borst described the effort as merely giving the appearance of defending.
Voetbalzone noted that Tsygankov had barely participated in Girona’s pre-season because of a conflict with the club’s management, providing possible context for his apparent lack of sharpness. Thilo Kehrer also made his Ajax debut, replacing Aaron Bouwman five minutes from time after the defender had been caught by a challenge from Ruben van Bommel.
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- Debutant Ajax maakt slechte indruk tegen PSV: 'Dit is hoe een pupil verdedigt!' | Voetbalzone— Voetbalzone
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