The Italian side who came closest to breaking the deadlock in the first half through Ukrainian star Andrey Shevchenko.

His powerful fifth-minute effort from the corner of the area was saved by Ajax keeper Bogdan Lobont.

Milan then lost Clarence Seedorf, their former Ajax midfield player, who was forced to leave the field midway through the opening period with a knee injury.

The second half was a slightly brighter affair, with Rafael van der Vaart close to diverting Steven Pienaar's shot into the Milan net in the 60th minute.

Milan introduced Rivaldo and Jon Dahl Tomasson late in the game in a bid to bring spark to their forward line but neither team was able to make a breakthrough.