AZ Alkmaar vs Ajax: Preview, Predictions, Team News, Lineups
AZ Alkmaar prepares to host Ajax in a crucial KNVB Beker round of 16 match at the AFAS Stadion. Both teams return to action following recent victories that bolstered their confidence after the winter break.
Match Preview: AZ Alkmaar vs Ajax
This encounter marks a rematch of last season’s last-16 meeting. In January 2025, AZ Alkmaar defeated Ajax 2-0, eventually reaching the final, where they lost on penalties to Go Ahead Eagles. AZ maintains a strong record against Ajax, having gone unbeaten in nine consecutive matches since a 2022 cup semi-final defeat.
AZ seeks to extend its undefeated streak against Ajax, having recently regained momentum by overcoming FC Volendam 1-0. Maarten Martens’ team dominated that match and now aims to translate their recent form into success against Ajax.
A Look at Ajax’s Form
Ajax enters this match with an unbeaten streak of their own, including a narrow victory against Telstar where they led 3-0 but faced a late scare. Despite some defensive vulnerabilities, Ajax managed to keep their unbeaten run alive, with four wins by three or more goals in their last seven matches.
Historically, Ajax has struggled to advance beyond the last 16 in recent seasons, leaving them eager to turn their fortunes around. They have only lifted the KNVB Beker trophy once since the 2020-21 season.
Team News
For AZ Alkmaar, Jizz Hornkamp could step into the starting lineup following his league debut, potentially replacing Troy Parrott. The team continues to cope without key players Denso Kasius, Jordy Clasie, and Mexx Meerdink due to injuries.
From Ajax’s side, Anton Gaaei and Youri Regeer are being assessed for injuries sustained in the last match. If unavailable, they will join Wout Weghorst, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and Steven Berghuis on the sidelines.
Predicted Lineups
| AZ Alkmaar | Ajax |
|---|---|
| Owusu-Oduro | Pasveer |
| De Wit | Rosa |
| Goes | Itakura |
| Penetra | Baas |
| Chavez | Wijndal |
| Mijnans | Klaassen |
| Smit | Van den Boomen |
| Koopmeiners | Steur |
| Patati | Gloukh |
| Hornkamp | Godts |
| Jensen | Dolberg |
Match Prediction
This fixture promises to be competitive, with both teams possessing the firepower to score. We predict a close match with a final score of 2-3 in favor of Ajax, as they look to seize the opportunity to end their long wait for success against AZ Alkmaar.
