Ajax – Aston Villa : Preview & Prediction
In the short history of the UEFA Europa Conference League (UECL), rarely has there been such an exciting tie as this clash between a pair of former European champions, Ajax and Aston Villa. Four-time continental kings Ajax overcame a grueling play-off tie against Bodo/Glimt to reach the Round of 16, but a run of just two wins in their last seven official matches (E3, P2) shows that they remain a shadow of their former selves.
At least both wins came in their last three appearances (P1), so perhaps John van ‘t Schip’s side can approach this tough tie with confidence, even if they have a number of bad omens to banish. That’s because Ajax have lost each of their last five home games against English opponents, going scoreless in none of the last four, while only two of their last ten games in European competition at the Johan Cruyff Arena ended in victory (E3, P5).
Those are records that Aston Villa will be eager to build on and, as Unai Emery’s revolution arrives in Amsterdam, a run of three straight Premier League wins will keep the traveling contingent in high spirits. He has already seen his side win on Dutch soil this season when they beat AZ Alkmaar 4-1 in the UECL group stage, maintaining their 100% winning record against clubs from the Netherlands (G3).
That win was part of an impressive 12-goal haul in the Villans’ previous four European away games this season, and Emery’s side are also unbeaten in six visits in all competitions (G4, E2). However, their recent defensive performance could be a cause for concern as they have conceded ten goals in their last five official matches.
Players to watch: Ajax’s Kenneth Taylor has been in top scoring form of late after his late goal against Bodo and scoring in the win over Utrecht at the weekend. His exploits are no match for Villa’s Ollie Watkins, who has scored five goals in his last three games and has contributed directly to 31 goals in all competitions this season (Goals 21, Assists 10) – only Erling Haaland has more among Premier League players.
Key Stat: After a 15-game streak of Ajax games in which both teams scored, each of their last two meetings ended 2-0 for the home side (G1, P1).
Ajax – Aston Villa : Betting Tips
Ajax – Win Odds: 5.25
