- FC Utrecht vs AFC Ajax, Eredivisie
- October 22, 2023
- 6:15 AM EST
- Stadion Galgenwaard, Utrecht, Netherlands
- ESPN+
FC Utrecht plays reeling AFC Ajax in a home matchup in hopes of getting out of the relegation zone. Ajax currently sits in the relegation play-off position after a series of unfortunate results. With controversy and confusion amidst the locker room of Ajax, it is entirely possible their struggles continue. Continue reading for an expert FC Utrecht vs Ajax prediction, complete with betting odds, stats, and the latest on Ajax fixtures and results.
Betting Odds: FC Utrecht vs Ajax Prediction
AFC Ajax remain odds-on favorites despite playing on the road, but this could be brand-name bias. The club is (-110) to defeat FC Utrecht, giving them an implied probability of 52.4%. Conversely, Utrecht is priced to safeguard all 3 points at home at (+275), according to highly-rated online sportsbook XBet. If both teams remain level after 90 minutes, the clubs will share a point each and draw bettors will be paid out at a current line of (+305).
To better understand the 3-way moneyline (1X2) market, see our soccer online betting tips.
AFC Ajax Fixtures and Results
As mentioned earlier, Ajax's dismal performance reached a boiling point recently. During a match at their home stadium, Feyenoord took a commanding 3-0 lead, triggering frustrated reactions from supporters who threw flares onto the pitch. Despite two attempts to resume play, the match was ultimately suspended. Four days later, the game continued behind closed doors, worsening the situation as Feyenoord scored another goal, sealing a 4-0 victory.
Just before the match resumed, Ajax chairman Pier Eringa resigned due to intense fan criticism, followed by director of soccer Sven Mislintat. Currently, the club finds itself in the relegation zone, experiencing its worst start since the mid-1960s.
In an effort to revive their former glory, Manager Maurice Steijn is under close scrutiny, with former manager Louis van Gaal keeping a keen eye on his progress. Van Gaal, who previously managed Manchester United, has taken on an advisory role with the hope of guiding Ajax back to its former greatness, particularly recalling the 1995 Champions League victory during his previous tenure with the club.
While it's challenging and unjust to pinpoint a single cause for Ajax's struggles, some speculate that the departure of star midfielder Mohammed Kudus from Ghana might be a factor. Kudus, who played a crucial role as an attacking midfielder, was sold in early August. He bid farewell to Amsterdam after an impressive hat trick in his final match. Notably, Ajax hasn't won a game since his outstanding performance in the Europa League playoffs. An unexpected victory against Albion could potentially appease the anxious supporters.
FC Utrecht Still Dangerous Despite Low-Table Status
FC Utrecht may have won only one game so far in their Eredivisie campaign, but they may have caught themselves a break. In what would usually be an intimidating matchup against one of the best clubs in Europe, Utrecht are considerably small underdogs.
The club has scored a grand total of 4 goals all season and have no multi-goal scorers. Prior to the first fall international break, the club had failed to muster a single point, as their top-flight campaign began with defeats to PSV Eindhoven, Heerenveen, PEC Zwolle and Feyenoord. Following the initial three matches, manager Michael Silberbauer was let go. Rob Penders then took charge for a brief period before Ron Jans was appointed during the international break.
Jans made an immediate impact, leading the team to their first victory of the season under his management. They defeated Heracles 3-1 away, courtesy of first-half goals from Ole Romeny and Victor Jensen, along with a late own goal by Navajo Bakboord. Despite this promising start, Utrecht has struggled to maintain the positive momentum under Jans in subsequent matches.
FC Utrecht vs Ajax Prediction and Free Betting Pick
I see no other option than to fade Ajax in this spot. These teams are both struggling, but one has all the advantages of a home team and is eager to get one back on what has been a dominant Dutch club. Stealing a win against Ajax would be a huge momentum-builder. And a new coach like Jans should be licking his lips at the opportunity to put a feather on his cap this early in his tenure.
However, betting on them to win is risky business. A victory would likely require multiple goals, something they have been able to do only once this season. In fact, in their 8 total matches so far, they have been shut out in 6 of them. That being said, I think Utrecht can score at least one or battle it out for a scoreless draw.
Ajax are in no means to bounce back at the moment. Getting a home team in Europe for the double chance at close to even money is as good as you can ask for. Take Utrecht +0.5 at (-102) currently available on BetOnline.
Odds are accurate at the time of writing but are subject to change.
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