Abdellah Ouazane reveals how he planned stunning Ajax goal

Abdellah Ouazane says his superb finish for Ajax against Sparta was the result of careful preparation rather than luck.

The Moroccan talent found the net at Het Kasteel with another fine strike, having also scored against Atalanta on Thursday. Speaking to ESPN, Ouazane explained that he and his team-mates had identified space in the far corner before the move began.

“We worked on this goal. There was a lot of space with the goalkeeper in the opposite corner. We finished the move with that idea in mind, and it worked well. We had watched the goalkeeper’s movements carefully,” he said.

Ouazane credited team-mate Steven Berghuis with helping him improve his understanding of when and where to shoot.

“I started watching videos of him thanks to Steven Berghuis. I often get myself into shooting positions, but I hit the ball too hard and without enough control,” he said.

“For this goal, I really scored because I had checked beforehand that there was a lot of space in the opposite corner.”

Unlike Thursday, Ouazane was named in the starting line-up on Sunday. The midfielder-winger said he had no issue adapting when changes were made to his position or involvement.

“I am very patient. I wait for my chances and take them. It does not matter which position I play. I want to give everything,” he said.

“I love taking on my opponent. Not just once, but several times in a match. And if it does not work for a moment, I try not to give up.”

Ajax eventually beat Sparta, with an excellent performance from Marc ter Stegen playing an important part in the result. Ouazane said he has developed a close relationship with the goalkeeper.

“I talk to him a lot. We also have dinner together. I am happy with him. But I think he is happy with me too,” Ouazane said.