Ahead of their 23rd Eredivisie match, Ajax is set to host Fortuna Sittard at the Johan Cruyff Arena. Ajax aims to extend their notable 26-year unbeaten streak against Fortuna, a rivalry marked by dominance from the Amsterdam club.
Match Preview: Ajax vs. Fortuna Sittard
Ajax is coming off a series of frustrating draws. Despite remaining unbeaten in the league since November, they have had three draws in their last four matches. The only victory in this period was a 2-0 win over FC Volendam. This match was expected, given Volendam’s struggling form, which saw them earning only five points out of 33 possible on the road.
Ajax’s fluctuating performance has included moments of high and low. They drew 2-2 against SBV Excelsior after leading 2-0 and managed a last-minute equalizer against AZ Alkmaar after Kian Fitz-Jim’s late goal. Historically, Ajax has fared well against Fortuna, winning their last three encounters by an aggregate score of 10-1.
Fortuna Sittard’s Current Form
Fortuna, on the other hand, enters this fixture with ongoing challenges. They have only secured one win in their last five league matches in 2026. The team continues to struggle defensively, with ten consecutive Eredivisie matches without a clean sheet. Their goalkeeping issues have contributed to their current position, sitting 11th in the league standings, five points behind the top eight.
- A historical context highlights Fortuna’s challenges, having not beaten Ajax since March 2000.
- In the previous 18 meetings with Ajax, Fortuna has drawn only three times.
- Their last victory at the Johan Cruyff Arena was recorded in April 1999.
Team Lineups and Key Players
Ajax will likely field a strong lineup despite minor injury concerns. Key players include:
- Kasper Dolberg: Striker who has regained fitness but may start on the bench.
- Mika Godts: Ajax’s leading scorer, with a total of ten goals so far this season.
Fortuna Sittard faces more significant issues with player availability:
- Missing Players: Mattijs Branderhorst, Daley Sinkgraven, Justin Lonwijk, Jasper Dahlhaus, and Ramazan Bayram are sidelined.
- Kaj Sierhuis: Leading scorer for Fortuna, with eight goals, represents their biggest offensive threat.
Match Prediction
Looking ahead to this clash, it is predicted that Ajax will secure a 3-1 victory. Despite the defensive struggles from both sides, Ajax’s historical advantage and current form position them as the favorites to emerge victorious. This match presents an opportunity for Ajax to regain momentum following their recent draws, while Fortuna seeks to break a long-standing poor record against one of their fiercest rivals.
