WELCOME
UWMAAT
U E FA
CHAMPIONS
LEAGUE
I am delighted to extend a warm
welcome on behalf of the AFC Ajax to
everyone present in the Olympic
Stadium of Amsterdam on this spe
cial evening. For the first time in nine
years (much too long) Ajax is present
at the champions tournament. After
reaching our goal, participation to the
UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE, we
like to confirm ourselves worthy of
being among Europe's best club-
teams.
The metre names of the other
participants guarantee three most
spectacular matches in the Olympic
Stadium, starting with tonight's
match. Milan, ruling champions of
Europe and once again champions of
Italy, are in many aspects an example
in international football. A club also
with that special touch of class.
The clash between Ajax and Milan,
which, thanks to the influence of
players like Marco van Basten, Ruud
Gullit and -in the recent past- Frank
Rijkaard, unmistakable have Dutch
influence, is for both players and sup
porters a highlight in the football
season.
I am convinced, that also thanks
to the supporters we will face an
unforgettable evening of entertai
ning football. Finally a warm welcome
to our visitors from Italy, the mem
bers of UEFA and the match officials
from Spain. I am sure that each will
contribute to an exciting match,
which I hope benefits the occasion.
Enjoy the match!
Michael van Praag
President AFC Ajax
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