Preview: Ajax Faces FC Groningen Amidst Struggles

Both Ajax and FC Groningen find themselves tied on points, placing them sixth and seventh in the Eredivisie, respectively. Each team has failed to secure a victory in their last three matches, indicating that improvements are necessary. Will either team manage to clinch a win? Below, we provide betting tips for the upcoming match between Ajax and FC Groningen.

### Managerial Challenges

Fred Grim’s return to Johan Cruyff ArenA has not been under the best circumstances. After serving various roles, including youth player, goalkeeper, and coach, he has stepped in as interim manager following the dismissal of John Heitinga. However, his tenure has not yielded positive results, with Ajax losing their last three matches against FC Utrecht (1-2), Excelsior (1-2), and Benfica (0-2). The home defeat against promoted Excelsior was particularly disheartening, as they deserved their victory.

### Defensive Concerns

Last season, Francesco Farioli focused on establishing defensive stability upon his arrival at Ajax, a strategy that proved effective. Unfortunately, former defender John Heitinga could not maintain that standard. Ajax managed to keep a clean sheet in their first two home matches against Telstar (2-0) and Heracles Almelo (2-0), but in the subsequent sixteen encounters, they consistently conceded goals. It is likely that FC Groningen will also find the back of the net.

### Player to Watch: Stije Resink

Following his breakout season at Almere City, Stije Resink’s transfer to FC Groningen has been a seamless transition. The defensive midfielder has quickly established himself within the team and has already been linked to much larger clubs. He exemplifies the type of player Ajax lacks in midfield. Resink not only fortifies FC Groningen defensively but also contributes offensively, having provided five assists this season, including one against PEC Zwolle last week.

### Historical Matchup

Ajax has historically dominated FC Groningen, winning six consecutive matches since March 2021. However, a late equalizer by Thijmen Blokzijl in their last encounter resulted in a 2-2 draw, allowing PSV to overtake Ajax in the standings. This outcome contributed to PSV ultimately securing the league title, leaving Ajax with a score to settle.

### Match Prediction

While Ajax is grappling with a managerial crisis, their sporting woes run even deeper. The team’s current form offers little optimism for an immediate turnaround, and we anticipate that this trend will continue during the upcoming match. FC Groningen could very well leave with at least a point. Betting on ‘FC Groningen to win or draw’ presents odds of 2.15 at Bet365.

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