Two struggling teams in the Champions League, Ajax and Benfica, are set to meet at Johan Cruyff Arena on Tuesday. Both teams are seeking their first win of the campaign. Ajax is under interim manager Fred Grim, who faces a tough task as the team has yet to gather any points after four matches. Benfica, on the other hand, looks to build upon their recent domestic victory.
Match Preview: Ajax vs Benfica
Ajax has had a dismal start to their Champions League season. They suffered a significant defeat against Galatasaray, losing 3-0 in their last match. Previously, they encountered a series of heavy losses, including a 4-0 loss to Marseille and a 5-1 defeat against Chelsea. Their record now shows eight defeats in their last nine Champions League appearances, leading to a position at the bottom of their group.
The team has conceded 14 goals in the tournament, making their defense the weakest among all participating teams. Ajax’s solitary goal is also the fewest scored in the competition this season. Their disappointing performance continues to haunt them, showing a complete decline in form, especially in international play.
Benfica’s Recent Form
In contrast, Benfica seems to be in a slightly better position. They broke a two-game winless streak with a 2-0 victory over Atletico Clube de Portugal in the Taca de Portugal. Despite this win, they struggled in the league, drawing 2-2 against Casa Pia, leaving them six points behind the leaders and struggling in their Champions League group. Benfica currently sits second from bottom in the group standings.
However, former Champions League winners Benfica are looking to reverse their unfortunate European form. Under the management of José Mourinho, the team has failed to score in their last three Champions League matches, intensifying pressure on them to perform in upcoming fixtures.
Team News
Ajax will have several absentees for the clash. Left-back Owen Wijndal remains doubtful, as does right-back Anton Gaaei, who was substituted in their last game. Steven Berghuis and Branco van den Boomen continue to recover from injuries. Wout Weghorst’s lack of form may lead to a starting spot for Kasper Dolberg, who managed to score Ajax’s only goal in their last encounter.
Benfica may see the return of goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin and Georgiy Sudakov. Mourinho might prefer the 4-2-3-1 formation to ensure a solid gameplay strategy. Meanwhile, Vangelis Pavlidis, who scored in recent matches, will be looked upon to find the net again against Ajax.
Possible Lineups
| Ajax | Benfica |
|---|---|
| Pasveer | Trubin |
| Gaaei | Dahl |
| Sutalo | Otamendi |
| Baas | A Silva |
| Alders | Dedic |
| Regeer | Rios |
| Taylor | Barreiro |
| Edvardsen | Ausenes |
| Gloukh | Sudakov |
| Godts | Schjelderup |
| Dolberg | Pavlidis |
Match Prediction
Given Ajax’s struggles and Benfica’s slight upward trajectory, the match favors Benfica. The Eagles could exploit Ajax’s defensive frailties to secure a much-needed victory in their Champions League campaign.
El-Balad anticipates a close contest, with a predicted outcome favoring Benfica at 2-1 over Ajax. This match will be crucial for both teams as they aim to revive their Champions League hopes.
