Benjamin Tahirović (foto: Getty Images)
Ajax's Bosnian midfielder, Benjamin Tahirović, faced heavy criticism after a 3:3 draw with Marseille in the Europa League.
Ajax and Marseille played to a 3:3 draw in the first round of the Europa League. After 20 minutes, Ajax led 2:0 with goals from Forbs (9') and Berghuis (20'). However, Marseille came back with goals from Clauss (23') and Aubameyang (38'), leveling the score at 2:2 by halftime. Taylor scored in the 52nd minute to give the home side a 3:2 lead, but the French side secured a point with another goal from Aubameyang in the 78th minute.
Three Croatians played for Ajax. Borna Sosa played the full 90 minutes and provided an assist for Berghuis's goal. Josip Šutalo was a regular in defense, while Jakov Medić came on in the 93rd minute, replacing Bergwijn. The weakest link in the home team was midfielder Benjamin Tahirović (20), who played the first half.
The Bosnia and Herzegovina national team player seemed insecure, and he faced heavy criticism from Dutch media after the match. ESPN analyst Marciano Vink did not hold back:
"Tahirović is dramatic. He really doesn't understand where he needs to move. He runs like a headless chicken in front of the defense. All threats to Ajax's defense come from Tahirović's area."
"I don't think he played well. He was very careless with the ball," said Ajax's coach Maurice Steijn.
Born in Sweden, Tahirović began his career there. Two years ago, he joined Roma's youth team and later progressed to the senior team. Ajax signed him this summer for 7.5 million euros. He has made six appearances for Bosnia and Herzegovina.