AEK – AJAX
Europe - UEFA Europa League, Group B, Round 2
05/10/2023 - 19:45 CET
AEK suffered their first loss in the Super League, falling 2-0 to OFI in Heraklion on October 2nd. They paid the price for making seven changes compared to their previous match against Atromitos and were thwarted by OFI's excellent tactics. The opposing forwards, Felipe (5') and Dico (83'), scored the two goals. AEK had their moments, with Mohammadi (33') and Gacinovic (81') unable to beat the opposing goalkeeper, Bowman. They created good opportunities through Cullens (44') and Zuber (45'+1'). Beyond the goals and a chance from Felipe (49'), which was saved by Stankovic, AEK wasn't under significant pressure.
In their debut in the UEFA Europa League group stage, AEK impressively defeated Brighton 3-2 on September 21st. Sidibe (11', assisted by Hadjisafi), Gacinovic (40', assisted by L. Garcia), and Ponce (84') were the scorers. However, their defense struggled against Brighton's Joao Pedro (30', 67'), who scored two penalties he won himself. L. Garcia missed a penalty, but goalkeeper Stankovic made crucial saves. Next, they have the postponed home match against Panaitolikos on October 8th.
In terms of team news, Almeida cannot count on the injured L. Garcia (E), while Zini (E) and Van Weert (E) are also unavailable. Mukudi (A), who was on the bench against OFI, may start, along with Vida (A), who is returning from injury. Other available players include Sidibe (A), who was suspended against OFI, Amrabad (ME), Jonsson (M), and Hadjisafi (MA), who were absent from the previous match for various reasons. Ponce (E) and Zuber (ME) are also in contention for a spot alongside Araujo (E).
Ajax is not just going through a competitive crisis but a multi-layered crisis, including form issues, the absence of their main goalkeeper, and pressure on the manager. This presents AEK with a significant opportunity to secure a second consecutive victory and enter a path towards qualification. AEK has traditionally been strong in New Philadelphia, and their recent match against OFI has likely made them more determined. The prediction is a win for AEK.