Anticipation Builds for AZ vs Ajax Clash

On Sunday afternoon, a challenging matchup is set to take place in Alkmaar as Ajax visits AZ. This encounter is particularly charged due to Ajax’s painful 6-0 defeat in the KNVB Cup last month, a night that remains fresh in the memories of Alkmaar supporters. However, the circumstances have shifted since then. AZ is under new management, while Ajax, guided by Fred Grim, seeks to reclaim its footing, despite ongoing vulnerabilities in their squad. Here, we provide predictions and betting tips for this unpredictable clash between AZ and Ajax.

Can AZ Close the Gap on Ajax?

Despite achieving a historic 6-0 victory over Ajax, Maarten Martens was unable to retain his position at the helm. A week later, AZ faced a setback against PEC Zwolle, prompting club leadership to intervene. Learoy Echteld was appointed as interim manager and is tasked with navigating the remainder of the season in Alkmaar. His start has been inconsistent: the team has secured two wins, one draw, and one loss. The recent defeat against NEC, which ended 1-3 in the AFAS Stadion, was a harsh blow. On the positive side, AZ managed to eliminate FC Twente from the cup, keeping alive hopes for silverware, a potential highlight in an otherwise lackluster season.

AZ vs Ajax: Vulnerabilities in Defense

Defensively, Ajax remains fragile. The team has managed to keep a clean sheet only five times this season, two of which occurred in August. In the current calendar year, they have achieved this feat solely against Volendam. Although Grim’s tactics are somewhat more conservative than those of his predecessor, lapses in concentration tend to appear in nearly every match. AZ is well aware of how to exploit such openings, making goals for the home side a plausible outcome.

Player to Watch and Bet On: Mika Godts

One of Ajax’s few consistent performers this season is Mika Godts. The Belgian left-winger is solidifying his breakout season, demonstrating reliability in an otherwise young and unpredictable side. He played a pivotal role against Excelsior, scoring two goals that propelled Ajax to a 0-2 lead. Currently, he boasts an impressive tally of 10 goals and 7 assists in the Eredivisie.

Head-to-Head Results

Recent historical encounters in Alkmaar have favored AZ. The impact of the 6-0 victory remains strong in collective memory, especially with Troy Parrott’s standout performance featuring a hat trick. AZ has established itself as a formidable opponent for Ajax at home, winning the last five league matches at their ground. The last time Ajax emerged victorious in Alkmaar was in January 2021, during a vastly different era under Erik ten Hag.

Prediction for AZ vs Ajax

In summary, this match promises to be particularly intriguing. Ajax must respond to the previous heavy defeat, but the question remains whether the team can maintain a high level of performance for a full ninety minutes. AZ also appears inconsistent and vulnerable, yet they often excel at home. It seems likely that both defenses will leave room for opportunities. Hence, a high-scoring encounter is anticipated. The betting option for ‘More than 2.5 goals’ offers odds of 1.49 at Unibet.

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