Ajax coach Frank de Boer claimed the 4-0 thrashing of Dinamo Zagreb was merely a "prelude" to the potentially group-defining clash in Lyon in three weeks' time.

The Amsterdammers were too strong for the Croatian side last night, with Gregory van der Wiel, Miralem Sulejmani, Siem de Jong and substitute Nicolas Lodeiro all scoring in an impressive victory.

Ajax are now second in UEFA Champions League Group D, three points ahead of Lyon with the pair battling it out to finish second in the pool behind runaway leaders Real Madrid, who have already qualified. Ajax visit the Stade Gerland on 22 November.

De Boer was delighted with how his side performed at the ArenA but realises bigger battles lie ahead. "The match in Lyon is now very interesting but that's what you do it all for. This was just a prelude, the most important match is still to come," he said.

"The way we played is how I like to see my team play. We were dominant and commanding and scored four goals. Besides that, we hardly gave away a chance."

If we draw against Lyon our chances of reaching the next stage of the Champions League are huge.
Frank de Boer, Ajax coach

Although second spot remains Ajax's target, last night's win does mean they are guaranteed at least third, and a place in the UEFA Europa League after Christmas.

De Boer added: "We are guaranteed a place in the Europa League but if we draw against Lyon our chances of reaching the next stage of the Champions League are huge. That would be a fantastic achievement for Ajax."

Dinamo coach Krunoslav Jurcic admitted his players were second best. "We didn't expect to lose heavily like this. I have to give Ajax great credit for their performance. However, I am also very proud of my players who gave everything," he said.

"The difference between the two clubs is probably not accurately reflected in a 4-0 scoreline, but then again, the result was definitely fair.

"We need some time to improve, but this is the Champions League and playing at this level can only help us learn."