Ajax vs AZ Clash: Heitinga Unveils Game-Changing Strategy for Pivotal Showdown

Ajax prepares to kick off their Eredivisie season this Saturday with a vital home match against AZ Alkmaar. The team is looking to enhance their performance under head coach John Heitinga as they aim for improved standings in the league.

Match Preview: Ajax vs AZ

This encounter is crucial for Ajax, who have struggled to maintain consistency in their performances this season. A win against AZ could significantly impact their trajectory.

Goalkeeper Selection

• Vitezslav Jaros will start in goal for Ajax.

Defensive Line Challenges

Heitinga faces difficulties in defense due to an injury to Owen Wijndal. Jorthy Mokio is expected to step in as the left back, mirroring his role from two weeks ago against Sparta Rotterdam.

• Defenders likely to start:
  • Youri Baas
  • Josip Sutalo
  • Anton Gaaei
  • Jorthy Mokio

Additionally, Ko Itakura‘s availability remains uncertain.

Midfield Arrangement

Finding the right midfield combination continues to challenge Heitinga. Expectations are that Kenneth Taylor, along with Davy Klaassen and Oscar Gloukh, will maintain their positions in this match.

Attack Line Options

Ajax is still without summer signing Kasper Dolberg, who is recovering from an injury. Wout Weghorst, who netted two goals against Sparta, is projected to lead the attack as the striker. Mika Godts is slated to play on the left wing.

On the right wing, Heitinga has several options available:

• Raúl Moro
• Steven Berghuis
• Oliver Edvardsen

Despite having an opportunity against Sparta, Raúl Moro did not leave a strong impression. It appears that Heitinga may prefer Berghuis for the right-wing position, although Edvardsen’s work ethic keeps him in consideration.

Predicted Starting Lineup

As Ajax approaches this critical clash, the focus remains on assembling a competitive lineup. The outcome against AZ could mark a turning point in their pursuit of better results this season.