Prediction: Ajax vs Dynamo Kiev

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 29/10

Bookmaker: bet365

The UEFA Champions League continues this week as Ajax and Dynamo Kiev attempt to force their way into the next round of the competition. Given how far they’ve both come it’d be pretty devastating to fall at the playoff stage, but both teams have game winners and both teams have loyal sets of fans. Whilst it wouldn’t be the end of the world for one of them not to qualify, the financial implications could be huge.

Ajax

Ajax are attempting to rebuild themselves as a force in European football once again, as the reputation of Dutch football continues to falter. With several players returning to the club it seems as if they’re putting the right pieces in place, but as the Europa League final against Manchester United showed, they need to shed their tendency to sell their best players at the first sign of interest from a bigger club.

Team News

De Jong will hope to lead the midfield, with Huntelaar and Tadic being the primary forwards for the Dutch side. Daley Blind will also hope to continue his successful return to his hometown club.

Dynamo Kiev

As one of the primary clubs in Ukranian football, there’s a certain expectation on Dynamo Kiev to make more of an impact in Europe. That kind of thing goes for a lot of major teams from big countries, especially when you’re outside of the major European leagues. Kiev have a great core squad and whilst they may not have the ‘name value’ players that they used to possess, they’ve still been able to build a team they can be proud of. Still, that’ll mean nothing to some fans if they can’t reach the group stages.

Team News

Kiev have an organised unit throughout the core of their squad, and that chemistry could really help them out in this competition this year. Besedin will be looked to for goals, as they attempt to build some momentum from the back.

Factors to Consider

• Ajax have three wins, two draws and one loss in their last six games.
• Dynamo Kiev have five wins and one draw in their last six games.
• Dynamo Kiev are in the midst of their domestic season whereas Ajax are just beginning theirs.
• Ajax have scored ten goals and conceded five in their last six games.
• Dynamo Kiev have scored seven goals and conceded one in their last six games.

Conclusion

Ajax are a bit more free-scoring than their opponents, but Dynamo Kiev have more composure and with their season being in full flow, they have more experience. They’re going to keep calm in the early stages and likely frustrate Ajax, which will impact their ability to get into a rhythm. In terms of an official prediction, we feel like Kiev are going to take an early lead, only for the home side to eventually force an equaliser late in the game – with the advantage going to Kiev in a 1-1 draw.

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 29/10

Bookmaker: bet365