The upcoming match between Ajax and AZ Alkmaar promises to be a tactical battle with contrasting styles. Ajax's possession-oriented game will meet AZ's counter-attacking approach. Expect high pressing from Ajax to win back possession quickly, while AZ will look to strike on fast breaks. Recent encounters show a history of close results, and injuries may tilt the tactical balance. The game could hinge on midfield control and quick transitions, with AZ having a slight edge in recent away form. Both sides possess strong attacking options, making this a potentially high-scoring affair.
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These are our top betting tips and predictions for the match.
Considering recent form and tactical setups, betting on a draw or AZ Alkmaar with a double chance offer appears prudent, especially given the expected competitive nature of the match.
Over 2.5 goals prediction is justified by both teams' attacking records and recent high-scoring encounters.
A tight first half is expected, with opportunities for AZ to lead or for the match to be level at halftime. Full-time prediction favors AZ due to tactical discipline and recent form.
Both teams have shown tendencies to score in recent fixtures, making Both Teams To Score a viable bet.
The match on October 18, 2025, is expected to be highly contested with both teams capable of securing at least a point as recent form and head-to-head encounters suggest a balanced contest. AZ is slightly favored to avoid defeat due to their recent performances.
Historical encounters between Ajax and AZ Alkmaar show a slight edge to AZ in recent away fixtures, with tight contests often ending in draws or narrow victories for AZ, indicating a balanced but competitive rivalry.
Ajax will be missing B. van den Boomen due to back injury, potentially affecting their midfield stability. AZ Alkmaar are without L. Zeefuik through injury, which might impact their attacking options.
Ajax is expected to line up in a 4-3-3 formation, emphasizing width and offensive pressure, while AZ Alkmaar may adopt a 4-2-3-1 setup, focusing on solid midfield control and quick counter-attacks.
Ajax has maintained a strong form, winning 60% of their last 5 matches, with an overall league form of 69%, highlighting their attacking prowess, especially at home. AZ Alkmaar also show solid recent form, winning over half their recent fixtures with effective counter-attacking tactics.
See below all the main information for this match.
Ajax typically displays a more possession-based approach, focusing on building attacks through their midfield and wing play. AZ Alkmaar tends to adopt a counter-attacking style, utilizing quick transitions to catch opponents off-guard. This tactical difference will: likely influence the flow and outcome of the match, with AZ potentially capitalizing on counters.
Ajax prefers maintaining possession and controlling the tempo of the game, often pushing high to press opponents when out of possession. AZ Alkmaar, meanwhile, relies on a disciplined defense and quick counter-attack, especially when exploiting spaces behind Ajax's pressing lines. This contrast could lead to a game where Ajax dominates possession, but AZ looks to strike on quick breaks.
The formations for Ajax are often 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1, emphasizing width and ball retention. AZ Alkmaar also prefers similar formations, which facilitates their counter-attacking strategy. Both teams’ pressing intensity varies, with Ajax usually applying high pressing high up the pitch, while AZ adopts a more measured pressing to invite turnovers and launch quick counters.
First League
Premier League
