Villarreal vs Ajax: Preview, Predictions, Team News, and Lineups
Villarreal and Ajax are set to face off on Tuesday at Estadio de la Ceramica, where both teams urgently need a victory to keep their hopes alive in the Champions League. Currently, Villarreal sits at 35th in the Champions League standings with just one point, while Ajax follows closely at 34th with three points. A loss for either team will result in elimination from the tournament.
Recent Form and Challenges
Villarreal comes into this match after a disappointing 2-0 defeat to Real Betis. This loss marked their fourth in six matches across all competitions. Despite being third in La Liga with 41 points, Villarreal has struggled in Europe, scoring only four goals this season and failing to find the net in three of their last four Champions League matches.
On the other hand, Ajax recently claimed a 4-2 victory against Qarabag, showcasing their ability to come back from a deficit. However, the Dutch team has struggled defensively, conceding a staggering 18 goals in the Champions League this season. Their run of 11 consecutive games without a clean sheet is a club record and highlights their ongoing issues at the back.
Key Statistics
- Villarreal Champions League Position: 35th (1 point).
- Ajax Champions League Position: 34th (3 points).
- Ajax’s Goals Conceded: 18 (highest in the Champions League this season).
- Villarreal’s Recent Losses: 4 in the last 6 matches.
- Ajax’s Record: 1 win, 2 draws, and 1 loss in last 4 matches.
- Villarreal’s La Liga Standing: 3rd with 41 points, trailing Real Madrid and Barcelona.
Team News
In terms of injuries, Villarreal will be without Pau Cabanes and Willy Kambwala, both sidelined with knee injuries. The expected lineup may feature Nicolas Pepe and Georges Mikautadze at the front, supported by Santi Comesana and Daniel Parejo in midfield.
Ajax faces uncertainty regarding striker Wout Weghorst due to an ankle injury. Should he be unavailable, Kasper Dolberg is likely to step into a forward role. Ko Itakura may partner with Jorthy Mokio and Sean Steur in midfield.
Possible Lineups
| Villarreal | Ajax |
|---|---|
| Junior | Jaros |
| Navarro, Marin, Veiga, Pedraza | Gaaei, Bouwman, Baas, Rosa |
| Buchanan, Comesana, Parejo, Moleiro | Mokio, Itakura, Steur |
| Pepe, Mikautadze | Gloukh, Dolberg, Moro |
Match Prediction
Given both teams’ defensive vulnerabilities, a high-scoring match is anticipated. With Ajax’s offensive strengths and Villarreal’s struggles in Europe, predictions lean towards a narrow victory for Ajax, possibly leading to a scoreline of 3-2. Fans can expect an eventful night of football filled with excitement and unpredictability.
