Champions League: Ajax dent Tottenham's European dreams with away win in London

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Ajax's Donny van de Beek grabbed an early goal to secure a precious 1-0 victory at Tottenham in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final.

The 22-year-old struck in the 15th minute in London to give the Dutch side a crucial away goal, leaving Spurs facing a daunting task in Amsterdam, if they are to reach the final for the first time.

Ajax, having already knocked out Real Madrid and Juventus en route to their first semi-final in Europe's elite competition since 1997, were too pacey for a labouring home side, especially in a first half in which they could have put the tie to bed.

Tottenham did improve after the break, but Ajax defended their lead diligently to restrict the home attack and almost scored a second goal late on when David Neres hit the post.

Spurs defender Jan Vertonghen is on doubt for the second leg after suffering a nasty head knock in the first half.

LONDON, ENGLAND - APRIL 30: Jan Vertonghen of Tottenham Hotspur reacts before going off injured during the UEFA Champions League Semi Final first leg match between Tottenham Hotspur and Ajax at at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on April 30, 2019 in London, England. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)
Photo credit: Getty
Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino assists Jan Vertonghen after an injury during the Champions League, Semi Final, First Leg at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London. (Photo by Mike Egerton/PA Images via Getty Images)
Photo credit: Getty

The Belgium international was contesting a cross against Ajax keeper Andre Onana and his teammate Toby Alderweireld.

The two Tottenham stars clashed heads and Vertonghen spent five minutes with medical staff recovering.

He did return for a short time but left the field soon after, stumbling towards the sideline.

He had to be helped to the dressing room by the medical team suffering from apparent delayed concussion.

PA