Qarabag FK vs. Ajax: Predictions, Team News, and Lineups

Qarabag FK is set to face Ajax in a crucial Champions League match at the Tofiq Bahramov Republican Stadium. The Azerbaijani club aims to break a five-match winless streak against Dutch teams in Europe. With only one loss in their past nine matches, they are keen to maintain their impressive form.

Match Preview: Qarabag FK vs. Ajax

This match marks Qarabag’s second appearance in the Champions League group stage. Currently positioned 19th in the 36-team table, they have amassed seven points. Remarkably, they share this point total with Barcelona, who sits in 18th place. The top eight teams will secure automatic advancement to the round of 16. This achievement is a remarkable possibility for Qarabag, given their status at the start of the tournament.

Qarabag has demonstrated strength at home, remaining unbeaten in their last ten games across all competitions, including two matches in the Champions League. Their victories include a 2-0 triumph over Copenhagen and a spirited 2-2 draw against Chelsea, where they competed against strong odds.

Current Form and Stakes

• Qarabag FK is keen to secure maximum points to enhance their chances of advancing.
• A win could lift them into a seeded position for the knockout playoffs.
• Ajax is desperate for a victory to escape their poor European performance, having lost their last eight matches in continental competitions.

Ajax’s Challenges and Recent Performances

Ajax, having recently parted ways with head coach Johnny Heitinga, is on a challenging run. Their inability to secure a European win this season has put a spotlight on the team’s struggles. After a disheartening sequence of four consecutive losses in the Champions League, Ajax managed to pick up two victories in the Eredivisie against Groningen and Fortuna Sittard. However, a closer look at these matches reveals they were not as dominant as the scores suggest.

Ajax will aim to reverse their fortunes against Qarabag, where they suffered a 3-0 defeat in their last meeting in the Europa League. This upcoming match is crucial for them to break their losing streak in Europe.

Team News

Qarabag’s injury concerns include midfielder Kady Borges, who has been sidelined. Leandro Andrade has emerged as a key player, scoring three of the club’s eight Champions League goals this season. He is expected to lead Qarabag’s attack, along with other notable players.

Ajax, on the other hand, will be without Wout Weghorst due to injury, alongside other players such as Steven Berghuis and Branco van den Boomen. The team is assessing Kenneth Taylor’s fitness ahead of the match. Despite these challenges, Ajax’s Mika Godts continues to be a vital offensive player, seeking to make an impact in the upcoming fixture.

Predicted Lineups

Conclusion

As Qarabag FK prepares for this critical encounter against Ajax, the stakes are high for both teams. Qarabag aims to continue their impressive home run, while Ajax desperately seeks redemption in the Champions League. With both teams focused on securing crucial points, fans can expect an intense match in Baku.