Story highlights Tottenham 0-1 Ajax

Donny van de Beek scores only goal

Tottenham, London (CNN) The tale of two of the most unlikely Champions League semifinalists in recent years continued in thrilling fashion Tuesday, as Ajax secured a narrow but potentially crucial first-leg victory over Tottenham.

Donny van de Beek's first-half goal was all that separated the two sides in a tight and sometimes scrappy affair.

Ajax could have put the match -- and arguably even the tie -- to bed in the second period but young Brazilian David Neres saw his shot hit the post after a scintillating Ajax counterattack.

Prior to kick-off, given the vast riches and all-star squads boasted by many Champions League teams, it seemed scarcely believable that either of these two sides would be competing to reach the final in Madrid on June 1.

Perhaps somewhat surprisingly, despite the two teams' inexperience at this stage of European competition, there were no nerves in the cool north London air, only palpable excitement.

Read More