The Daily Star Ireland
Ajax, a strong contender for the Europa League title, is meeting expectations so far. The Amsterdam club currently ranks 6th, with the same points as the 9th-ranked team, which will have to go through the play-offs. Ajax remains undefeated in the first four games, earning a 1-1 draw at Slavia Prague and dominating Besiktas 4-0, Qarabag 3-0, and Maccabi Tel Aviv 5-0. However, they suffered a 2-0 loss to Real Sociedad two weeks ago. Domestically, Ajax is chasing PSV at the top of the Eredivisie, remaining unbeaten in their last 12 matches. This weekend, they will face Alkmaar.
Lazio, another strong team in the Europa League, leads the standings, sitting three points ahead of Ajax. The Italian side won their first four games, defeating Dynamo Kyiv 3-0, Nice 4-1, Twente 2-0, and Porto 2-1. However, they were held to a 0-0 draw by Ludogorets in their last match. Lazio is also aiming for Champions League qualification, sitting 5th in Serie A. After a run of five consecutive wins, they lost to Parma 3-1 and will play Napoli this weekend.
Ajax will be missing several key players for this match, including attackers Brobbey, Godts, and Rijkhoff, as well as long-term absentees like defender Avila, midfielder Mannsverk, and forward van Axel Dongen. Despite these injuries, Ajax has solid performers such as striker Weghorst (5 goals in the Eredivisie), winger Bertrand Traoré (4 goals and 2 assists), and midfielder Klaassen (6 goals). Midfielders Henderson and Taylor (3 goals in C3) are expected to start. Lazio will also be without midfielders Castrovilli and Vecino.
On a positive note, left-back Nuno Tavares, who was absent in the last Europa League match, has returned. Lazio’s midfield is likely to feature Guendouzi and Rovella, while forwards Zaccagni, Dia (2 goals in C3), and Castellanos (2 goals in C3) will be available, along with experienced winger Pedro (3 goals and 2 assists in C3).
Prediction
Although Ajax is known for their attacking style, 18 of their last 20 Europa League games have ended with three goals or fewer. Similarly, 19 of Lazio’s last 20 Europa League matches have also seen under 3 goals. Given these trends, a low-scoring draw is expected when the two teams meet.
Prediction: Ajax 1-1 Lazio.
