Published: 10:16, March 16, 2022 | Updated: 11:17, March 16, 2022
Ajax dominates but Benfica scores to advance in Champions League
By Xinhua

Ajax's Antony (right) heads the ball during the Champions League, round of 16, second leg soccer match between Ajax and Benfica at the Johan Cruyff ArenA in Amsterdam, Netherlands, March 15, 2022. (PETER DEJONG / AP)

THE HAGUE - Portuguese side Benfica took a shock 1-0 win at Ajax in Amsterdam on Tuesday to advance to the quarterfinals of the UEFA Champions League, after a 2-2 in the first leg in Lisbon in February.

Ajax dominated the match at the Johan Cruyff Arena from the start and had some opportunities. However, Erik ten Hag's team lacked sharpness in front of goal, with Antony, Edson Alvarez, Steven Berghuis, Jurrien Timber and Lisandro Martinez all missing the target, and Benfica goalie Odysseas Vlachodimos saving attempts by Antony and Ryan Gravenberch.

READ MORE: Sanchez's late equalizer saves Inter in Serie A

Benfica players celebrate at the end of the Champions League, round of 16, second leg soccer match between Ajax and Benfica at the Johan Cruyff ArenA in Amsterdam, Netherlands, March 15, 2022. (PETER DEJONG / AP)

In the second half, Ajax continued to push Benfica back. However, in the 77th minute, Benfica scored in a rare attack. After a free-kick by Alex Grimaldo, Uruguayan striker Darwin Nunez rose above the Ajax defense and goalkeeper Andre Onana to score the game's only goal and see his team advance 3-2 on aggregate.