This match pits one of the Netherlands’ most storied clubs, Ajax, against a newly promoted Telstar side still finding its footing in the top flight after a 47‑year absence.

Ajax sit comfortably near the top of the table with 30 points from 17 matches and are expected to maintain momentum after strong pre‑Christmas form, while Telstar, positioned 15th with 15 points, will be eager to show they are more than just a relegation scrap outfit.

Ajax’s superior depth, historic dominance, and goal‑scoring prowess make them clear favourites, but Telstar’s home resilience and desire for points could make this an engaging contest. 0

The winter break provided both teams time to regroup and plan for the second half of the season. Telstar finished 2025 with a morale‑boosting 1–0 away win over NAC Breda and ended the break with a 4–1 victory over Hoek in cup action, showing glimpses of offensive capability and defensive organisation.

Ajax, meanwhile, extended their unbeaten run in competitive fixtures and demonstrated attacking fluency across matches before Christmas and in recent friendlies.

Historical context also favours Ajax strongly — the Amsterdam giants have won most of the encounters between these clubs, including a 2–0 victory in their August meeting this season, while Telstar’s last top‑flight win over Ajax dates back over half a century ago. 1

Team News & Injury Report – Balanced Coverage (50‑50 Split)

Ajax – Injury Concerns & Squad Updates

Ajax head into the game dealing with a few injury and availability issues that could influence the starting lineup. Long‑term contributors such as Steven Berghuis and Wout Weghorst remain sidelined due to ongoing groin and ankle injuries respectively, leaving gaps in the team’s attacking structure.

James McConnell also continues to recover from an overload injury, limiting midfield rotation options, while defender Josip Sutalo is doubtful, potentially disrupting Ajax’s defensive depth.

These absences mean Ajax may need to place faith in younger or fringe players, and manager John Heitinga will likely adjust his tactical approach accordingly.

Despite these setbacks, Ajax’s overall quality and squad depth remain strong, and they should still field a competitive eleven capable of controlling possession and creating scoring opportunities.

Telstar – Fitness Status & Squad Selection

Telstar enjoy a relatively clean bill of health ahead of this weekend’s clash, with no significant injuries reported in their first‑team squad. While early caution remains regarding yellow card accumulations — especially for defenders like Tyrese Noslin who is one booking away from suspension — the squad is largely available.

The winter break also brought new reinforcements, including midfielder Cedric Hatenboer on loan, who could add attacking dynamism.

Telstar’s manager Anthony Correia may opt for a consistent lineup based on recent positive results, balancing defensive discipline with opportunistic attacking bursts. The availability of attacking options like Patrick Brouwer gives Telstar a genuine goal threat, and maintaining momentum from the break could be key to any upset aspirations.

Form Guide – Recent Performances & Context

Ajax have shown solid form heading into this fixture, with a mix of wins and competitive draws in Eredivisie play.

Their ability to score goals consistently backed up by strong attacking statistics and control matches through possession makes them favourites to dominate this weekend’s clash.

Recent results before the winter break, such as victories over top‑flight rivals and commanding performances in friendlies, underscore Ajax’s offensive depth and tactical cohesion.

Although defensive lapses have appeared sporadically, the team’s scoring efficiency and ability to press high up the pitch continue to define their style. 4

Telstar’s form has been more unpredictable, a reflection of their status as a newly promoted club adjusting to the Eredivisie’s intensity.

Their resilience has shown in narrow victories and draws, and they have tended to stay competitive at home even when facing stronger opponents.

Statistical projections and betting previews often highlight the possibility of over 2.5 goals and both teams scoring, given Ajax’s attacking prowess and Telstar’s willingness to attack from transitions. While Telstar’s defensive record is not the strongest, their capacity to frustrate opponents and convert set plays could make the match more open than many expect. 5

Predicted Lineups – Based on Recent Matches & Injury News

Here are the projected starting XIs for tomorrow’s encounter, factoring in recent lineups and current injuries. These are realistic projections rather than generic guesses:

Ajax (4‑2‑3‑1):
GK: Vitezslav Jaros
RB: Anton Gaaei
CB: Itakura
CB: Youri Baas
LB: Rosa
CM: Sean Steur
CM: Youri Regeer
RW: Davy Klaassen
CAM: Oscar Gloukh
LW: Mika Godts
ST: Kasper Dolberg

This projected Ajax XI reflects adjustments due to absentees like Berghuis and Weghorst, meaning attackers such as Godts and Dolberg are expected to lead the forward line, while midfield creativity will be supplied by Gloukh and Klaassen.

Telstar (4‑2‑3‑1):
GK: Koeman Jr.
RB: Offerhaus
CB: Nwankwo
CB: Bakker
LB: Hardeveld
CM: Owusu
CM: Rossen
RW: Noslin
CAM: Kamp
LW: Brouwer
ST: Zonneveld

Telstar’s lineup leans on familiar faces, with players like Brouwer and Zonneveld expected to retain attacking roles given their influence in recent matches. Their defensive structure and midfield balance aim to absorb pressure and launch counter‑attacks where possible.

Prediction & Scoreline Outlook – Ajax Favoured but Expect Goals

Given Ajax’s superior quality, depth, and historical dominance over Telstar, they are expected to secure an away victory. Forecasts from data models and expert previews suggest a scoreline around Telstar 1–3 Ajax