Ajax vs Groningen Preview Prediction Team News and Lineups
Ajax will host Groningen at the Johan Cruyff Arena in a significant Eredivisie matchup this Sunday. The home side has struggled recently, sitting sixth in the league and experiencing a disturbing streak of poor form. In contrast, Groningen, currently positioned just below them, see this match as an opportunity to ascend the standings.
Match Overview
Groningen last defeated Ajax in October 2020 and has not won in seven encounters since, which includes six losses and a single draw. They face Ajax, a team which has not claimed victory in five matches across all competitions. With their last win dating back to August, both teams desperately seek to halt their respective downturns.
Recent Form
Ajax has struggled at home, registering two losses and one draw in their last three Eredivisie matches. These results have contributed to the recent decision to replace head coach Johnny Heitinga with Fred Grim following a disappointing 3-0 defeat to Galatasaray in the Champions League. The team has lost four matches consecutively, culminating in a record of just one victory in their last ten games.
Groningen enters the match with their own challenges. They are winless in four consecutive games, a streak extending to three in the league. Their defensive frailties have been evident this season, marked by significant defeats, including a 5-2 loss to Sparta Rotterdam in the cup and a 4-1 loss to AZ Alkmaar. Their last league match saw them fall 2-0 to NEC.
Key Players and Injuries
Injury concerns continue to affect both teams. Ajax is missing Steven Berghuis and Branco van den Boomen. Leading scorers Wout Weghorst and Mika Godts have not been able to deliver consistently despite making significant contributions at times. Grim may consider starting Kasper Dolberg after his recent performance.
For Groningen, manager Dick Lukkien has a mostly fit squad. Thom van Bergen, fresh off a two-goal performance against PEC Zwolle, aims to lead his team’s attacking efforts. Central midfielder Stije Resink’s creativity has been pivotal, tallying five assists this season.
Projected Lineups
| Ajax | Groningen |
|---|---|
| Pasveer | Vaessen |
| Rosa | Rente |
| Sutalo | Blokzijl |
| Baas | Janse |
| Alders | Pearseman |
| Regeer | De Jonge |
| Taylor | Resink |
| Edvardsen | Der Werff |
| Gloukh | Taha |
| Godts | Schreuders |
| Weghorst | Van Bergen |
Match Prediction
As Ajax takes on Groningen, both sides face pressure to secure points. Groningen aims to end their long-standing winless streak against Ajax, while the home team looks to correct its path. Given recent defensive vulnerabilities for both teams, a competitive and potentially high-scoring draw appears likely.
