Ajax will face AZ Alkmaar at AFAS Stadion this Sunday in a crucial Eredivisie matchup. This encounter follows a significant 6-0 defeat Ajax suffered in the KNVB Beker less than a month ago. The Amsterdam club aims to break a winless streak that dates back to March 2022, as they have not triumphed at this venue in their last six visits.
Match Preview
AZ Alkmaar recently fired head coach Maarten Martens after a disappointing run, despite their earlier success against Ajax. The Cheese Farmers had an impressive unbeaten streak against Ajax, extending to 10 matches until Martens was dismissed. Under interim coach Lee-Roy Echteld, they have struggled to maintain that momentum, suffering multiple losses including a recent 3-1 defeat to NEC.
AZ Alkmaar bounced back from that league loss with a narrow 2-1 victory over FC Twente in the KNVB Beker, moving closer to the semi-finals. The team seeks to improve their league position, with only two wins in their last 10 Eredivisie matches, contributing to their mixed performances.
Ajax’s Current Form
Ajax faces pressure as they have not secured a win on the road in six attempts since March 2022. Their defensive vulnerabilities are apparent, having conceded two goals in four out of their last five league games. Despite drawing their last three fixtures, Ajax sits in fourth place, just one point behind second-placed Feyenoord, making this match pivotal for their aspirations in the league.
Team News
A few key injuries may impact both teams before the match. For AZ Alkmaar, Kees Smit and Mexx Meerdink are under assessment, while Jordy Clasie, Sven Mijnans, and Denso Kasius are expected to be sidelined. Troy Parrott has been a bright spot, contributing significantly in recent matches with five goals and assists combined over the past four games.
Ajax, on the other hand, heads into the match with most of their squad available, except for defender Ko Itakura. Mika Godts stands out as a crucial player, having netted three match-winning goals this season and leading the team with seven assists.
Possible Lineups
- AZ Alkmaar Starting XI: Owusu-Oduro; Maikuma, Goes, Penetra, De Wit; Koopmeiners, Boogaard; Sadiq, Sin, Jensen; Parrott
- Ajax Starting XI: Jaros; Gaaei, Sutalo, Baas, Mokio; Klaassen, Regeer, Steur; Boundia, Dolberg, Godts
Match Prediction
Given their recent track record against Ajax, AZ Alkmaar possesses an edge in this contest. The psychological impact of the recent heavy defeat may linger for Ajax, further complicating their chances of a successful result in Alkmaar. A predicted outcome could see AZ Alkmaar prevailing with a 3-1 victory over Ajax.
This matchup promises to be a stage for both teams, as they vie for crucial points in their campaigns. Fans and analysts will be closely watching how both squads navigate this tense rivalry.
