Source: CCTV.com

05-22-2007 10:14

AZ Alkmaar have moved a step closer to the Champions League after a last minute goal by Shota Arveladze gave his side a 2-1 win over Ajax in the first leg of their qualifying play-off tie. And in the day's other playoff, FC Groningen have secured their place in next season's UEFA Cup with a win against Utrecht.

AZ closer to Champions League

The match could not have got off to a better start for hosts AZ Alkmaar.

With less than two minutes on the clock, Demy De Zeeuw delivered a fine ball to Simon Cziommer, who chipped the goalkeeper to put the home side in front.

But their celebrations were short-lived, as Ajax equalized 11 minutes later. Wesley Sneijder fired a shot from the edge of the area past AZ goalkeeper to give Ajax a precious away goal.

The match appeared to be heading for a draw until Arveladze's late intervention.

Ajax will host the second leg on May 27 and the winner will play in the qualifying round of the Champions League.

Groningen grab UEFA Cup spot

Meanwhile, FC Groningen have secured their place in next season's UEFA Cup with a 2-1 victory over Utrecht in the second leg of their play off on Sunday.

It was always going to be an uphill struggle for Utrecht after a disastrous 2-nil defeat in the home leg, and things were not any better in the return leg.

A Luis Suarez goal and Yevgeni Levchenko penalty helped to propel Ron Jans' side to a 4-1 aggregate triumph.

Editor:Liu Fang