PEC Zwolle is set to welcome Ajax at the Mac3Park Stadion for an Eredivisie clash on Sunday, Matchday 25. Both teams face different pressures as they aim to secure their season objectives.
Match Preview: PEC Zwolle vs Ajax
PEC Zwolle enters this match having not won in their last three outings. They are eager to distance themselves from the relegation battle. In their previous match, they managed to earn a point by drawing 1-1 against FC Utrecht, thanks to a late equalizer.
- Last Match: 1-1 vs FC Utrecht
- Recent Form: 2 wins, 3 losses, 1 draw in the last 6 matches
Historically, PEC Zwolle has struggled against Ajax, suffering 41 defeats in their previous 55 encounters. Their last victory against Ajax dates back to October 2014, highlighting their ongoing difficulties in this fixture.
PEC Zwolle’s Performance
Although struggling for consistency, PEC Zwolle has scored in their last eight league matches. At home, their record shows:
| Result | Matches |
|---|---|
| Wins | 6 |
| Draws | 1 |
| Losses | 4 |
Ajax’s Recent Struggles
Ajax recently faced NEC Nijmegen, resulting in a 1-1 draw that reduced their chances of moving into third place. The team remains focused on securing a spot in the UEFA Champions League qualification rounds.
- Last Match: 1-1 vs NEC Nijmegen
- Current Position: 4th in Eredivisie with 43 points
The draw against NEC has intensified the pressure on Ajax, especially with their recent mixed form. Their last standout performance was a 4-1 victory over Fortuna Sittard, ending a series of draws.
Team News
PEC Zwolle will miss several key players:
- Jamiro Monteiro
- Damian van der Haar
- Samir Lagsir
- Jasper Schendelaar
- Jan Faberski (suspension)
Ajax’s injury woes are also significant, with goalkeeper Vitezslav Jaros out for the season. New signing Oleksandr Zinchenko is also unavailable due to injury. Davy Klaassen returns to training, increasing his chances of selection.
Projected Lineups
PEC Zwolle’s likely starting formation includes:
- Goalkeeper: De Graaff
- Defenders: Gooijer, MacNulty, Jensen, Floranus
- Midfielders: Buurmeester, Oosting, Fichtinger
- Forwards: Shoretire, Namli, Kostons
Meanwhile, Ajax may field the following players:
- Goalkeeper: Paes
- Defenders: Rosa, Sutalo, Baas, Wijndal
- Midfielders: Gloukh, Fitz-Jim, Steur
- Forwards: Bounida, Godts, Weghorst
Prediction
Considering both teams’ current forms and historical performances, the expected result favors Ajax. We predict a scoreline of PEC Zwolle 1-2 Ajax.
The stakes are high as PEC Zwolle seeks points to avoid relegation, while Ajax aims to keep pressure on rival NEC Nijmegen for a Champions League spot. The match promises to be an exciting encounter.
