Ajax vs Galatasaray: Predictions, Betting odds, Lineups, Preview

Explore Bwin's detailed preview for Ajax vs Galatasaray in the UEFA Champions League. Stats, odds, predictions, and lineups for the 20:00 GMT match.

Ajax, despite their recent string of losses, will look to exploit home advantage against Galatasaray. Their defensive frailties, evident in conceding 11 goals in their last three games, suggest a focus on counter-attacks led by Weghorst. Galatasaray, buoyed by victories over Bodo/Glimt and Liverpool, will aim to control the midfield and press high. Their ability to score against strong opposition indicates a potential for an open, high-scoring game.

Ajax's recent form has been dismal, with three consecutive losses and a total of 11 goals conceded. This poor run, particularly the heavy defeats against Chelsea and Marseille, points to significant defensive issues. However, playing at home might provide a psychological boost, and Ajax will need to tighten their backline while relying on quick transitions to create scoring opportunities.

• Loss: 1-5 vs Chelsea (A)

• Loss: 0-4 vs Marseille (A)

• Loss: 0-2 vs Inter (H)

Galatasaray have shown resilience and attacking prowess, securing wins against Bodo/Glimt and Liverpool. Their only recent loss came against Eintracht Frankfurt away, suggesting they perform better at home. This form indicates they could dominate possession and press Ajax, leveraging their midfield strength to control the game's tempo and exploit Ajax's defensive vulnerabilities.

• Win: 3-1 vs Bodo/Glimt (H)

• Win: 1-0 vs Liverpool (H)

• Loss: 1-5 vs Eintracht Frankfurt (A)

The head-to-head record shows Ajax defeating Galatasaray 2-1 in their most recent encounter on 30 January 2025 in the UEFA Europa League. This result suggests Ajax has the edge in direct confrontations, but the narrow margin indicates closely contested matches between these teams.

• Ajax 2-1 Galatasaray (30 Jan 2025) - UEFA Europa League

• B. van den Boomen (Back Injury) - Out

• K. Dolberg (Stomach Injury) - Out

• S. Berghuis (Groin Injury) - Out

• I. Gundogan (Calf Injury) - Doubt

• W. Singo (Hamstring Injury) - Doubt

• Predicted lineup: Pasveer (GK), Rosa (DF), Itakura (DF), Sutalo (DF), Baas (DF), McConnell (MF), Taylor (MF), Moro (MF), Gloukh (MF), Godts (MF), Weghorst (AT)

Ajax's predicted lineup suggests a focus on midfield control with McConnell and Taylor anchoring, while Moro and Godts will be key in transitioning play to Weghorst up front.

• Predicted lineup: Cakir (GK), Sallai (DF), Sanchez (DF), Bardakci (DF), Jakobs (DF), Sane (MF), Sara (MF), Lemina (MF), Yilmaz (MF), Akgun (MF), Osimhen (AT)

Galatasaray's lineup indicates a strong midfield presence with Sane, Lemina, and Yilmaz, aiming to dominate possession and feed Osimhen, who will be crucial in breaking down Ajax's defense.

• Weghorst vs Sanchez: This duel will see Ajax's forward Weghorst challenging Galatasaray's defender Sanchez, crucial for Ajax's counter-attacking strategy.
• Godts vs Yilmaz: Ajax's midfielder Godts will face off against Galatasaray's Yilmaz, a battle that could determine midfield control.
• Moro (Ajax): Moro's role in Ajax's midfield will be pivotal, providing creativity and drive in their attempts to break down Galatasaray's defense.
• Akgun (Galatasaray): Akgun's versatility and ability to influence the game from midfield will be key for Galatasaray's attacking transitions.

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Odds and market details are accurate as of the time of publication.