Ajax Faces Go Ahead Eagles Amidst Turbulent Times

In recent years, Ajax has become accustomed to bouncing back from disappointments, but few rivals have posed such a significant challenge as the one they faced last Wednesday. Compounded by the presence of Go Ahead Eagles—an opponent Ajax has historically found difficult—they enter this match under considerable pressure. Below, we offer our insights and betting tips for the upcoming clash between Ajax and Go Ahead Eagles.

Desperation Looms

Ajax appeared to be on the upswing in recent weeks, with interim coach Fred Grim aligning the team’s focus, which earned him a contract extension through the end of the season. The team aimed to break a poor streak against AZ in the cup last Wednesday, but they suffered a staggering 6-0 defeat in Alkmaar. Despite Feyenoord’s own struggles, Ajax remains in contention for second place, trailing by only three points, with PSV being the only team to earn more points in the last five matches.

Ajax vs. Go Ahead Eagles: A Fragile Defense

Winning titles requires a solid defense, a principle well understood by seasoned coach Fred Grim. Unfortunately, Ajax’s defensive woes have been evident, managing to keep a clean sheet only once in their last six matches—against Feyenoord at home (2-0). They conceded two goals each to Qarabag FK (2-4), NEC (2-2), and Telstar (2-3), and suffered an alarming six-goal barrage from AZ. This season, Ajax has managed to keep a clean sheet only four times.

Key Player to Watch: Mathis Suray

The Keuken Kampioen Divisie features several talented players who could provide significant contributions to Eredivisie teams. Among them is Mathis Suray, who scored fourteen goals for FC Dordrecht two seasons ago in the second tier before being signed by Go Ahead Eagles. This season, he has been in fine form, netting eight goals in the Eredivisie, including three in the last two matches. He was pivotal in both the 1-1 draw against FC Groningen and the 2-2 draw with Fortuna Sittard, contributing entirely to Deventer’s goal tally.

Head-to-Head Encounters

Since Go Ahead Eagles reestablished themselves in the Eredivisie, Ajax has often struggled against them. In the 2021/22 and 2022/23 seasons, Ajax failed to secure a single victory. Although they managed to win twice in the last five encounters, the other three matches ended in draws.

Prediction for Ajax vs. Go Ahead Eagles

Ajax’s performance has been so unpredictable that assessing their form is a challenge. Following their dismal showing against AZ, it’s unlikely they will replicate such a poor performance this weekend, yet we do not foresee a home victory at the Johan Cruijff ArenA. Betting on ‘Go Ahead Eagles to win or draw’ offers odds of 1.76 at Unibet.

Gambling can be risky. Know when to stop | 18+