Football News : Ajax inflict 5-0 rout on NEC as defending champions kick off new season

Eredivisie champions Ajax began the defence of their crown with a storming 5-0 rout against newly promoted NEC Nijmegen at the Johan Cruyff Arena on Saturday. Four goals in the opening 20 minutes - including an unfortunate own goal from Bart van Rooij - set the tone for a dominant Ajax performance, with all five goals coming in a pulsating first half. The victory leaves Ajax unbeaten in their last 12 league matches at home, winning 10 of those contests.