Excelsior vs. Ajax: Expert Predictions and Tips for February 1, 2026
On February 1, 2026, SBV Excelsior will host Ajax Amsterdam in an important Eredivisie fixture at Woudestein, set to kick off at 12:15 PM. This encounter is pivotal, as it marks Matchday 21 of the season. Currently, Excelsior occupies the 13th position in the league with 22 points, while Ajax sits comfortably in 3rd place, boasting 37 points.
SBV Excelsior’s Season Overview
SBV Excelsior is grappling with a challenging season. Their record includes 6 victories, 4 draws, and 10 losses, resulting in a goal difference of -15. Recent performances have been less than satisfactory, with only one win in their last five matches, along with three draws and a single defeat. Their last outing ended in a 0-0 stalemate against Twente Enschede, highlighting both their solid defense and struggles to score.
Current Strategy and Form
Under the guidance of manager Ruben den Uil, Excelsior has adopted a defensive strategy coupled with quick counter-attacks. However, their home game record—4 wins, 1 draw, and 5 losses at Woudestein—exhibits inconsistency. To earn points against Ajax, they must adapt and exploit any weaknesses in Ajax’s defense.
Ajax Amsterdam’s Performance
Ajax Amsterdam is experiencing a successful season, currently ranked 3rd in the Eredivisie. Their record shows 10 wins, 7 draws, and 3 losses, with a commendable goal record of 39 goals scored and 26 conceded. Despite a recent setback, suffering a 1-2 defeat against Olympiakos Piraeus, Ajax remains a significant contender due to their possession-focused gameplay under coach Fred Grim.
Away Record and Strengths
Ajax’s away form is impressive, featuring 3 wins, 5 draws, and only 1 defeat. Their attack has consistently found the net, making them a serious threat in any matchup. The recent defeat might serve as motivation for Ajax to secure a win against Excelsior.
Head-to-Head Encounters
The historical rivalry between SBV Excelsior and Ajax is noteworthy. In their previous match, Excelsior managed an unexpected 2-1 victory over Ajax. The last five meetings reflect the following outcomes:
- Excelsior: 1 win
- Ajax: 2 wins
- Draws: 2
This recent victory could bolster Excelsior’s confidence ahead of their next encounter.
Recent Form Comparison
| Team | Last 5 Matches |
|---|---|
| SBV Excelsior | 1 win, 3 draws, 1 defeat |
| Ajax Amsterdam | 2 wins, 1 draw, 2 defeats |
Ajax holds a slight advantage in recent form compared to Excelsior’s struggle to convert draws into victories.
Betting Predictions
With the current league standings and recent performances in mind, predictions lean toward an away win for Ajax Amsterdam, with odds sitting at 1.79 at 1win. Moreover, the likelihood of both teams scoring is plausible, given Ajax’s offensive capabilities and Excelsior’s sporadic success in front of goal.
Conclusion
The upcoming Eredivisie clash between SBV Excelsior and Ajax Amsterdam promises to be an engaging match. Ajax’s favorable league position and scoring proficiency suggest they may dominate the contest. However, Excelsior’s recent victory over Ajax adds an interesting dynamic, making this matchup intriguing for fans and bettors alike.
Key Tips
- Expect over 3.5 goals in matches involving both teams.
- Excelsior has either drawn or won in three of their last four games.
- Ajax has encountered difficulties, recording three draws or losses in their last six matches.
