Ajax manager John Heitinga has urged his team to “stay in the game” for as long as possible when Galatasaray visit Amsterdam on Wednesday, speaking at a press conference on Tuesday.

The Dutch giants, along with Benfica, are the only sides yet to register a point in this season’s UEFA Champions League, having lost their opening three matches to Inter (2-0), Olympique Marseille (4-0), and Chelsea (5-1). The string of defeats has put pressure on Heitinga, the former Liverpool assistant.

“Galatasaray have a lot of quality and experience in their squad,” Heitinga said. “Just like last year, they are dominating the Turkish league. We need to be on our guard. In terms of speed, explosiveness, and one-on-one strength, they are a dangerous team. If we want to pick up points, especially at home, these are the games to do it.”

‘Stay in the game’

Ajax have struggled defensively in Europe this season. After keeping Inter at bay for 42 minutes in their opener, the team has conceded seven first-half goals in their last two games—Chelsea scored in the 18th minute, while Marseille opened after just six minutes at the Stade Vélodrome.

“We want to show ourselves on the biggest stage, also for our fans,” Heitinga continued. “The lads worked hard last season to play in the Champions League, and they deserve to be here. We want to stay in the game for a long time and create chances from our own play. Galatasaray can give away space, but they are deadly on the counterattack. We want to take the first step by getting points.”

Tactical adjustments

Ajax have struggled to impose themselves tactically, showing limited creativity in build-up play and generating few clear-cut opportunities. Heitinga acknowledged these shortcomings and outlined his approach:

“You have to recognise the moments to act as a link player and how to handle pressure. We will assess the players’ positioning and the team’s structure. There will undoubtedly be times when we cannot play under pressure, and in those moments, we will use the long ball.”

Home advantage

Despite fan criticism throughout the season, Heitinga expects the Johan Cruyff ArenA to provide a strong advantage against a large and vocally supported Galatasaray contingent.

“All players will be wearing earplugs tomorrow,” he joked. “From my time as a player, I know how intense Turkish fans can be. Many Turkish people living in the Netherlands support Galatasaray. We are at home, and the stadium will be buzzing. I expect our fans to be the dominant force.