Ajax's European Opponent Thrashed: 'The Champions Were Stripped Bare'

Sensational Defeat for Sporting Lisbon

Sporting Lisbon, Ajax's upcoming opponent in the Champions League, suffered a humiliating 4-0 defeat at home to fierce rivals Benfica.

The Portuguese champions were outplayed in all aspects of the game, as Benfica dominated possession and created numerous scoring opportunities.

Former Manchester United winger Nani opened the scoring for Benfica in the 20th minute with a stunning strike from outside the box.

Rafa Silva doubled the lead just before half-time, capitalizing on a defensive error by Sporting.

The second half was no different, with Benfica continuing to control the game and adding two more goals through Darwin Nunez and Julian Weigl.

The result leaves Sporting Lisbon in disarray ahead of their crucial Champions League match against Ajax next week.

"The champions were stripped bare," said Benfica manager Jorge Jesus.
"We were simply not good enough today," admitted Sporting Lisbon captain Sebastian Coates.
"Ajax will be a tough test, but we need to show a different face," added Sporting coach Ruben Amorim.

Ajax will be hoping to capitalize on Sporting Lisbon's poor form when the two teams meet in the Champions League next week.

The Dutch champions will be confident of victory after their impressive 5-0 win over Heerenveen on Saturday.

However, Ajax must be wary of a wounded Sporting Lisbon side desperate to prove their worth.