Ajax had just scored their third goal when Barcelona finally made their first substitution.
Semedo replaced Coutinho.
After this substitution, Barcelona immediately switched to a 4-4-2 Formation, with Roberto pushed up into the right side of midfield.
Valverde still did not dare take Vidal off. He clearly understood the Chilean midfielder's role in Barcelona's midfield.
They might have been at a disadvantage now, but taking Vidal off could easily have made things even worse.
Valverde's strategy was clear. The most important task at hand was to stabilize the situation, avoid conceding again, and wait until Ajax had worn themselves out. Then Barcelona would bring on Arthur, take control of possession, and launch a counterattack in one decisive push.
Under normal circumstances, as long as Barcelona performed normally, Ajax would not be their match.
Yang Yang also understood Valverde's intentions perfectly.
With the situation so favorable, Ajax made no substitutions. However, this group of young players had completely lost themselves in the moment and gone wild. Every one of them seemed to have endless energy, fighting and contesting every ball with all their might.
That was the advantage of young players. Once they got into their rhythm, they could unleash endless potential and strength.
Only five minutes had passed since the previous goal when Ajax won the ball in the middle and defensive thirds. Militão sent a long pass forward, trying to hit Barcelona behind their defense, but Langley got there first and headed it back.
Rakitić immediately sent a long pass, looking to launch an attack down the left.
Alba sprinted forward along the left touchline, racing toward where the ball was coming down.
Achraf was faster. He was practically a bolt of lightning as he surged forward, beat Alba to the ball, and slid in, knocking it away.