AMSTERDAM, Aug 23 (SW) - The most surprising result in the third
preliminary round of the Champions League came in Amsterdam, where FC
Copenhagen defeated Ajax Amsterdam 0-2 to qualify for the group phase.
The Dutch were the stronger side in the first half, and had nothing to be afraid of after winning the first leg 1-2.
But the Danes seemed more motivated in the second half and Michael
Silberbauer silenced the home fans by scoring the opening goal from
close range in the 59th minute.
On away goals, Ajax were still through to the group phase but an absurd
own goal from Thomas Vermaelen in the 77th minute turned things around,
and had Copenhagen advancing to the main tournament.
The Danish team will make its debut at the top level, while PSV Eindhoven will be the only team to represent the Netherlands.
