The gap between Ajax and PSV is not as large as in previous years, according to NOS Voetbal. Ajax's technical director Jordi Cruijff stated that the club wanted to close the gap with PSV this summer, which led to the signings of Julian Brandt and Marc-André ter Stegen. The new signings were visible on the pitch, particularly in the first half against PSV. Ajax's new players, including Tolu Arokodare and Brandt, found each other frequently and were able to play vertically through the PSV defence. This tactic had been successful for Ajax in previous weeks. PSV's one-on-one play across the entire field also provided opportunities for Ajax to play under pressure by making one split pass. Armando Obispo played a crucial role in PSV's 1-0 goal, winning his direct duels and forming a complementary defensive duo with Lutsharel Geertruida.