Fortuna Sittard is set to face Ajax at the Fortuna Sittard Stadion this Saturday as the two teams meet in an Eredivisie clash. With just five points separating them in the league standings, Fortuna seeks to narrow the gap against the 36-time champions of the Netherlands.
Match Preview
It has been nearly 25 years since Fortuna last defeated Ajax, a stat that underscores the consistent dominance of the Amsterdam side. Since that victory in March 2000, Fortuna has experienced 14 losses, failing to score in 12 of those encounters. However, under the management of Danny Buijs, Fortuna looks to change their fortune this weekend.
Currently sitting in ninth place, Fortuna has had a commendable home performance this season, collecting 14 points out of a potential 21. They have only lost once at home, a late October defeat to Groningen. In contrast, they have claimed victories against FC Volendam and Heerenveen, while maintaining three clean sheets so far this term.
Ajax’s Current Form
Ajax enters this match after a recent victory against Groningen, which marked their first win in the Eredivisie after a three-match winless streak. The 2-0 win was overshadowed by a string of poor performances, where they struggled to capitalize on numerous scoring opportunities. Despite the win, Ajax remains in a precarious position, currently in fifth place, separated from sixth by only a point.
Interim coach Fred Grim aims to secure a consecutive win and reinvigorate the team’s momentum. With minimal changes in tactics, Ajax is under pressure to perform. They are closely trailing behind NEC and AZ, both of whom hold a one-point lead over them.
Team News
- Fortuna Sittard: Injuries may impact the lineup, with Daley Sinkgraven, Alen Halilovic, Syb van Ottele, and Ramazan Bayram likely sidelined.
- Key Players: Mohamed Ihattaren, the leading goalscorer for Fortuna, has netted all four of his league goals at home.
- Ajax: The team continues to miss players such as Steven Berghuis due to injury. Key threats include Mika Godts and Wout Weghorst.
Predicted Lineups
| Fortuna Sittard | Ajax |
|---|---|
| Branderhorst | Jaros |
| Pinto | Regeer |
| Adewoye | Bouwman |
| Marquez | Baas |
| Dahlhaus | Wijndal |
| Michut | Klaassen |
| Fosso | Itakura |
| Peterson | Taylor |
| Ihattaren | Gloukh |
| Limnios | Weghorst |
| Sierhuis | Godts |
Match Prediction
Despite historical challenges, Fortuna Sittard has a unique opportunity this weekend. Their strong home record combined with Ajax’s inconsistent form could lead to a potential upset. Predictions tilt in favor of the hosts, with a possible scoreline of Fortuna Sittard 2 – 1 Ajax.
