Qarabag vs Ajax Prediction: 24/10/2024

Qarabag, a team familiar with European competition, particularly after reaching the Europa League round of 16 last season, has had a rough start in this year’s edition under the new format. The three-time reigning champions of Azerbaijan have struggled, suffering defeats in their first two matches—3-0 against Tottenham in London and 1-2 at home against Malmö, where they failed to capitalize on an early lead.

Domestically, however, Qarabag continues to excel, dominating the league. They were aiming for their sixth consecutive victory in the championship when they faced lowly Kapaz last Friday.

On the other side, Dutch powerhouse Ajax Amsterdam has had a strong start to the season across all competitions. Before heading to Heracles last weekend, they were sitting 5th in the Eredivisie with two games in hand. In Europe, Ajax is bouncing back from their group-stage exit in last season’s Europa Conference League. Now in the Europa League, they started with a commanding 4-0 win over Besiktas, followed by a 1-1 draw against Slavia Prague, despite finishing the game with ten men.

Returning from the international break, Ajax faced Heracles, keeping their momentum going.

Qarabag’s summer signing from Adana Demirspor, goalkeeper Muhammadaliyev, was expected to be a key player but is sidelined with an injury, along with his backup, Ramazanov. Juninho, who scored against Malmö and was prolific in the league last season, will be available, as will key players such as local international Huseynov, captain Zoubir, Algerian international Benzia, and Leandro Andrade, who has scored three goals in the league.

For Ajax, young defender Baas (21) is suspended after his red card against Slavia Prague, adding to a long list of absences, including Gaston Avila, Berghuis, midfielder Kian Fitz-Jim, Norwegian international Mannsverk, youth prospect Rikhoff, and young forward Axel Dongen. However, key players Weghorst (1 goal, 1 assist in the league) and former Liverpool star Jordan Henderson are expected to return.

 

Prediction

Qarabag’s recent home form is concerning, with seven losses in their last 10 matches and 19 goals conceded during that period. In contrast, Ajax has been performing well, with four wins in their last nine away games in what is a highly competitive league.

Prediction: Qarabag 1-3 Ajax