Europa League | Ajax v Lazio: Match Preview
As the Europa League group stage approaches its climax, Ajax will host Lazio at the Johan Cruyff Arena on Thursday in a match that promises to be pivotal for both teams' ambitions. The post Europa League | Ajax v Lazio: Match Preview appeared first on FootItalia.com.
As the Europa League group stage approaches its climax, Ajax will host Lazio at the Johan Cruyff Arena on Thursday in a match that promises to be pivotal for both teams’ ambitions. With Lazio currently leading the group and Ajax in pursuit, this clash will be crucial for securing a spot in the knockout stages.
Lazio enter this match unbeaten in the Europa League this season, sitting atop the group with 13 points. Their impressive run includes victories over notable opponents, showcasing their strength and resilience under new manager Marco Baroni. However, they recently had their perfect record come to an end with a goalless draw against Ludogorets, but they remain firmly on track to qualify for the last 16.
Ajax, on the other hand, find themselves in a more precarious position. After suffering a 2-0 defeat to Real Sociedad in their last Europa League outing, they must regroup quickly. Despite this setback, Ajax have shown promise at home, having won both of their previous group matches convincingly. They currently sit with 10 points, just three behind Lazio, and need a strong performance to maintain their push for qualification.
Ajax’s recent form has been mixed. They experienced a rare league defeat against AZ Alkmaar after a series of strong performances, including a draw against Utrecht. Their domestic league standing remains competitive, but inconsistency has crept into their game. Historically, Ajax has struggled against Italian teams at home, having not won any of their last 12 encounters with Serie A sides.
In contrast, Lazio are riding high after back-to-back victories over Napoli, which included an impressive cup win that showcased their attacking prowess. The Biancocelesti are just three points off the top of Serie A and are looking to carry that momentum into Europe.
Ajax are known for their attacking style of play and will look to dominate possession at home. They will aim to exploit any defensive lapses from Lazio while ensuring they remain solid at the back after conceding goals in recent matches. The key for Ajax will be maintaining composure and taking advantage of set pieces and counter-attacks.
Lazio, meanwhile, are likely to adopt a more pragmatic approach away from home. With their strong defensive record this season, they will aim to frustrate Ajax and capitalize on any mistakes made by the Dutch side. The midfield battle will be crucial as both teams look to establish control early in the match.
Team News
Ajax will welcome back captain Jordan Henderson after he missed the previous match due to a hamstring issue. His experience in midfield will be vital for Ajax as they look to control the game against Lazio’s dynamic attack. Devyne Rensch may also return from injury, but Sivert Mannsverk is ruled out due to fitness concerns, and Owen Wijndal will serve a suspension.
Francesco Farioli’s side will rely heavily on their attacking players, with Kenneth Taylor and Mika Godts leading the charge after both have scored three goals each in this season’s competition. Taylor is particularly close to making history as he aims to become only the second Ajax player to score in four consecutive home appearances in UEFA competitions.
For Lazio, Marco Baroni has a fully fit squad at his disposal. Veteran forward Pedro has been pivotal in their European campaign and could return to the starting lineup after his contributions earlier in the season. Tijjani Noslin, who recently scored a hat-trick against Napoli, is expected to play a significant role alongside star striker Taty Castellanos.
Expected Starting XIs
Ajax (4-3-3): Pasveer; Gaaei, Sutalo, Kaplan, Hato; Van den Boomen, Henderson, Taylor; Berghuis, Weghorst, Godts
Lazio (4-3-1): Mandas; Lazzari, Gigot, Patric, Pellegrini; Rovella, Dele-Bashiru; Tchaouna, Pedro, Noslin; Castellanos
Match Prediction
Given Lazio’s unbeaten run and recent form coupled with Ajax’s struggles against Italian opposition at home, this match promises to be tightly contested. However, Lazio’s confidence and ability to perform under pressure may give them the edge needed to secure victory in Amsterdam. Our prediction leans towards a narrow win for Lazio—Ajax 1-2 Lazio—setting up an exciting finish to the group stage as both teams vie for advancement in European competition.
Prediction: Ajax 1 – 2 Lazio
The post Europa League | Ajax v Lazio: Match Preview appeared first on FootItalia.com.
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