Beenhakker tipping Real to win in Amsterdam

Former Real Madrid and Ajax coach Leo Beenhakker is backing the Spanish club to prevail in their Champions League encounter on Wednesday.

But the 70-year-old, who is currently technical director at Ujpest, believes the home side could spring a shock if their illustrious opponents have an off-day.

“I will watch with more interest than normal because I cherish warm feelings for both clubs,” he told AD.

“The counter-attack of Real is incredible. Within three seconds they are in front of the goalkeeper. They will only lose if they have a bad day.

“But Ajax beat Manchester United last season. You never know.”

Beenhakker has also been interested in the progress of some of his former Ajax players, like Frank De Boer, Dennis Bergkamp, Rob Witschge and Bryan Roy, who all turned to coaching after hanging up their boots.

“Maybe I secretly made a contribution to the road they have travelled. From that group of players, around 15 have gone onto become coaches. I’m proud of that fact.”