Credits: IMAGO / Sportimage

Kenneth Taylor Red Card Sparks Chaos as Chelsea Crush Ajax 5-1

Credits: IMAGO / Sportimage

It was a fiery Champions League night at Stamford Bridge. With the first 17 minutes of the game, Ajax midfielder Kenneth Taylor received a straight red card for a reckless challenge on Facundo Buonanotte. That made the way while casting a shadow over Chelsea’s commanding 5-1 win.

On the 15-minute mark, Taylor lunged high into a challenge, catching Buonanotte above the ankle with his studs after losing a 50-50 ball. Referee Felix Zwayer initially awarded a free-kick to Chelsea. He did not deem the tackle worthy of dismissal. However, after consulting the VAR team, he reviewed the footage and quickly overturned his decision.

🇳🇱 Red card for Kenneth Taylor, Ajax are now down to 10 men v Chelsea! pic.twitter.com/Gvn9R09wYe
— front page football (@fpfootballx) October 22, 2025

Changing his decision to show a red card. The Ajax coach looked stunned on the sidelines as his side were reduced to ten men early in the contest. The challenge left Buonanotte, on loan from Brighton & Hove Albion, visibly shaken. Fortunately, he was able to continue and play the entire 90 minutes of the game.

Chelsea Ruthless After Kenneth Taylor Red Card

Chelsea took advantage of the numerical superiority almost immediately. Marc Guiu scored his first Champions League goal just a minute after the sending-off. The 19-year-old Spaniard reacted sharply after Wesley Fofana’s header across the post found him unmarked in front of the Ajax net.

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Chelsea continued to dominate proceedings as Moises Caicedo doubled the lead through a deflected strike. Then Enzo Fernandez converted from the spot following a foul on Jamie Gittens. Youngster Estevao Willian then added his name to the scoresheet.

He dispatched a penalty to make it 4-1 by halftime. Ajax then briefly threatened through Wout Weghorst’s penalty conversion. However, the Dutch side struggled to cope with the Blues’ fluid attacking play. Maresca’s side maintained control, showing poise and precision even with the game effectively settled before the break.

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Post-match, Enzo Maresca praised his team’s composure but refrained from commenting directly on Taylor’s challenge. He instead focused on the team’s brilliant performance and mentality. The Italian tactician had earlier predicted a difficult night against Ajax.

He previously acknowledged their history and intent to “play their football,” but his men turned it into a statement win. While Buonanotte fortunately escaped serious injury, Taylor’s red card stole the night, not only through the spotlight, but also from Ajax to have a better chance to give a tougher fight.

Ajax

Champions League

Chelsea

Chelsea vs Ajax

Facundo Buonanotte

Kenneth Taylor

Moumita Dutta

soccer

Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.