
Ajax's Path to the Conference League Group Stage
July 10, 2026 · Álvaro Blasco
Ajax enters the Conference League's second qualifying round, facing the loser of FK Vojvodina vs. Ferencváros. Success will advance them to further rounds.
Ajax's Path to the Conference League Group Stage
Ajax is gearing up for the upcoming European season with their sights set on advancing to the group stage of the UEFA Conference League. Following a season where they secured their place in the competition through European play-offs, the Amsterdam-based club is now preparing for the challenges ahead. Ajax's journey in the Conference League will commence in the second qualifying round, which marks the beginning of their European campaign this year. The club has already been active in pre-season preparations, including a training camp in Garderen from July 6 to July 11. Ajax scheduled several friendlies, facing AEK Larnaca on July 10, VfL Bochum on July 15, and Olympiakos Piraeus on July 18, to fine-tune their squad ahead of the competitive fixtures. This preparation is crucial as they aim to navigate through potentially tricky qualifying rounds.  Ajax's first opponent in the Conference League will be determined by the outcome of the Europa League first qualifying round clash between FK Vojvodina and Ferencváros. The loser of this encounter will face Ajax in a two-legged tie, with the first leg scheduled for July 23 and the return on July 30. If Ajax succeeds in overcoming this initial hurdle, they will progress to the third qualifying round. The draw for the third qualifying round is set to take place on July 20, and Ajax will need to be prepared for a range of potential adversaries. Matches for this round are scheduled for August 6 and 13. Success in both of these ties will propel Ajax into the play-offs, effectively the final qualifying round, where they will have one last chance to secure their spot in the group stage. The play-off draw occurs on August 3, with matches on August 20 and 27. Should Ajax successfully navigate through these rounds, they will enter the group stage, with the draw for this phase taking place on August 28. The group stage matches are set to begin on October 15, where Ajax will face six different opponents, marking a significant step in their European journey. This campaign is crucial for Ajax as they aim to make a mark in European competitions, further building on their storied history. For fans, this is an exciting opportunity to see their team compete on the continental stage once again.Frequently Asked Questions
When does Ajax start their journey in the UEFA Conference League?
Ajax's journey in the UEFA Conference League will commence in the second qualifying round, with their first match scheduled for July 23.
Who will Ajax face in the first qualifying round of the Conference League?
Ajax's first opponent will be determined by the outcome of the Europa League first qualifying round clash between FK Vojvodina and Ferencváros.
What are the dates for Ajax's matches in the third qualifying round?
The matches for the third qualifying round are scheduled for August 6 and August 13.
When is the draw for the third qualifying round?
The draw for the third qualifying round is set to take place on July 20.
What is the significance of the play-off round for Ajax?
The play-off round is the final qualifying round where Ajax will have one last chance to secure their spot in the group stage of the UEFA Conference League.
Read more on our latest coverage and stay tuned for updates on what happens next.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When does Ajax start their journey in the UEFA Conference League?▾
Ajax's journey in the UEFA Conference League will commence in the second qualifying round, with their first match scheduled for July 23.
Who will Ajax face in the first qualifying round of the Conference League?▾
Ajax's first opponent will be determined by the outcome of the Europa League first qualifying round clash between FK Vojvodina and Ferencváros.
What are the dates for Ajax's matches in the third qualifying round?▾
The matches for the third qualifying round are scheduled for August 6 and August 13.
When is the draw for the third qualifying round?▾
The draw for the third qualifying round is set to take place on July 20.
What is the significance of the play-off round for Ajax?▾
The play-off round is the final qualifying round where Ajax will have one last chance to secure their spot in the group stage of the UEFA Conference League.
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