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

Fixture: Chelsea vs Ajax
Date: Wednesday, 22 October 2025
Kick-off: 20:00 BST
Venue: Stamford Bridge
Match Prediction: Chelsea 2-0 Ajax
Chelsea's recent victory against Benfica at home suggests they are capable of maintaining a solid defensive structure while capitalising on counter-attacks. Their loss to Bayern Munich away indicates vulnerabilities when facing strong offensive teams, which Ajax could exploit if they manage to find their rhythm.
However, Ajax's consecutive losses to Marseille and Inter, both without scoring, highlight a lack of offensive firepower and confidence, which might hinder their ability to challenge Chelsea effectively.
The match is likely to be dominated by Chelsea, who will look to control the tempo and exploit Ajax's defensive frailties. Ajax will need to be more clinical in front of goal than they have been recently to stand a chance, but their form suggests this will be a tall order. Chelsea should secure a comfortable victory, maintaining a clean sheet.
Chelsea's recent form shows a strong defensive performance at home against Benfica, securing a 1-0 win, which indicates their capability to shut down opponents effectively.
However, their away loss to Bayern Munich by a score of 1-3 suggests that top-tier teams can breach their defence. This mixed form could lead to a cautious approach against Ajax, focusing on maintaining a solid backline while looking to exploit Ajax's recent struggles in front of goal.
Recent Champions League Results:
Win: 1-0 vs Benfica (H)
Loss: 1-3 vs FC Bayern München (A)
Ajax's recent performances have been disappointing, with heavy losses to Marseille and Inter, both without scoring. This indicates a significant lack of offensive threat and confidence, which could be a major concern heading into the match against Chelsea.
Their inability to find the net in these games suggests they will struggle to break down Chelsea's defence, potentially leading to another frustrating outing.
Recent Champions League Results:
The recent Champions League head-to-head record between Chelsea and Ajax shows a closely contested rivalry.
Chelsea's most recent victory was a 1-0 win away at Ajax, while their home game against Ajax ended in a 4-4 draw. This history suggests that while the matches can be competitive, Chelsea has a slight edge, particularly in away games.
Chelsea 4-4 Ajax (05 Nov 2019)
Ajax 0-1 Chelsea (23 Oct 2019)
Dario Essugo (Thigh) - Out
Liam Delap (Hamstring) - Out
Levi Colwill (Knee) - Out
Mykhailo Mudryk (Suspended) - Out
João Pedro (Suspended) - Out
Enzo Fernandez (Knee) - Doubt
Reece James (Leg) - Doubt
Tosin Adarabioyo (Calf) - Doubt
Wesley Fofana (Head) - Doubt
Cole Palmer (Groin) - Doubt
Kasper Dolberg (Stomach) - Doubt
Branco van den Boomen (Back) - Doubt
Owen Wijndal (Unknown) - Doubt
Youro Reeger (Unknown) - Doubt
Predicted lineup: Sánchez, Gusto, Chalobah, Acheampong, Cucurella, Santos, Caicedo, Neto, Buonanotte, Garnacho, George
Chelsea's predicted lineup suggests a focus on maintaining a strong defensive structure with Chalobah and Acheampong, while relying on the creativity and pace of Buonanotte and Garnacho to exploit Ajax's defensive weaknesses.
Predicted lineup: Jaros, Rosa, Sutalo, Itakura, Baas, Klaassen, Fitz-Jim, Taylor, Moro, Weghorst, Godts
Ajax's predicted lineup indicates a need to balance defensive solidity with the attacking threat of Weghorst and Godts, who will be crucial in breaking down Chelsea's expected compact defence.
Garnacho vs Rosa: This duel will see Chelsea's dynamic forward Garnacho test Ajax's defensive resilience through Rosa.
Caicedo vs Taylor: Chelsea's Caicedo will look to control the midfield and disrupt Ajax's rhythm against Taylor.
Buonanotte (Chelsea): Buonanotte's creativity and flair in midfield will be vital for Chelsea to unlock Ajax's defence.
Godts (Ajax): Godts' ability to create and score will be crucial for Ajax to have any chance of challenging Chelsea.
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Odds and market details are accurate as of the time of publication.