Linda Caicedo Seals victory as Real Madrid Women defeated Ajax Women 2-1 at Estadio Alfredo Di Stéfano to win 4-1 on aggregate, securing a spot in the UEFA Women’s Champions League group stage.
Introduction:
Real Madrid Women secured their spot in the next stage of the UEFA Women’s Champions League after a hard-fought 2-1 victory against Ajax Women at the Estadio Alfredo Di Stéfano. Carrying a solid lead from the first leg, the Spanish side wrapped up the tie with a convincing 4-1 aggregate scoreline. See also: Real Madrid Women Edge Atlético 3-2 in Thrilling Madrid Derby
A Tense Start in Madrid
The match began with high intensity as both sides looked to seize control of the pitch. Ajax knew they faced an uphill battle overturning the deficit from the opening fixture. Still, they came out of the dressing rooms after the half-time interval with renewed purpose and determination to change their fortunes.
Ajax Strikes First After the Break
The visitors stunned the home crowd shortly after the restart. In the 47th minute, Kayleigh Snoeijs found the back of the net to give Ajax a deserved lead on the night. Her clinical finish sparked a brief period of panic for Real Madrid, injecting fresh hope into the visiting Dutch squad and tightening the overall aggregate scoreline.
Schröder Restores Parity
Real Madrid responded with composure, absorbing the pressure before striking back. Just eleven minutes after falling behind, forward Schröder equalized in the 58th minute. Her crucial goal settled the nerves of the home supporters and shifted the momentum squarely back to the Spanish side, making life very difficult for Ajax to orchestrate a late comeback.
Linda Caicedo Seals the Win in Stoppage Time
As the match drifted into the dying moments, Real Madrid put the result beyond any doubt. With the clock ticking deep into additional time, star attacker Linda Caicedo scored in the 9th minute of stoppage time (90’+7). Her brilliant strike capped off an impressive individual performance and sealed a 2-1 victory on the night.
Ultimately, Real Madrid’s quality across both legs proved decisive. The 4-1 aggregate victory highlights their growing pedigree in European competition, while Ajax exits the tournament with their heads held high after a competitive qualifying campaign. Real Madrid now turns their full attention toward the main group stage, where Europe’s elite await.