FC Twente and Ajax take commanding leads into Conference League returns

FC Twente and Ajax will attempt to complete their passage through the third qualifying round of the Conference League when they play their return fixtures on Thursday. Both Dutch clubs enter the second legs with substantial advantages from their opening meetings.

Twente are in the stronger position after recording a 6-0 victory over DAC 1904. That emphatic result has left the Enschede side all but certain of reaching the next round, although they must still negotiate the return match before their progression is formally secured.

Ajax also have a useful cushion as they prepare to face Shelbourne FC again. Míchel Sánchez’s team hold a 3-1 advantage over the Irish club, giving them a two-goal margin to defend in the second leg. Their position is less overwhelming than Twente’s, but the Amsterdam side remain firmly in control of the tie.

The two fixtures give Dutch football a chance to send both representatives into the next stage of Conference League qualifying on the same evening. Twente’s task is primarily to protect a commanding six-goal lead, while Ajax must ensure Shelbourne do not overturn the deficit. The outcomes of Thursday’s returns will determine whether both Eredivisie clubs continue their European campaigns in the following qualifying round.