Ajax and Rangers face off in a pre-season friendly on Saturday at the Johan Cruijff Arena. Both teams are looking to build momentum as they prepare for their respective upcoming seasons.
This match serves as a crucial test for new Ajax manager Francesco Farioli, who is aiming to rejuvenate the team after a challenging 2023-24 campaign. Meanwhile, Rangers, under Philippe Clement, seek to refine their squad and strategies ahead of a competitive season.
Team Form
Ajax’s Recent Form
Ajax’s pre-season has been a mix of highs and lows. They began with a 1-0 loss to PEC Zwolle but bounced back with an impressive 4-0 victory over Sint-Truiden.
Farioli’s tenure started with a defeat but showed promise in their second match with goals from Jorrel Hato, Jaydon Banel, Carlos Forbs, and Kenneth Taylor.
The team is undergoing a significant rebuild after finishing fifth in the Eredivisie last season, far below their usual standards.
Rangers’ Recent Form
Rangers drew 0-0 in their recent friendly against Standard Liege. This match is part of their pre-season preparations in the Netherlands, where they are working on building fitness and integrating new players.
Last season, Rangers were close contenders in the Scottish Premiership but ultimately fell short.
Clement, having been appointed last October, is looking to make his mark with the team and set a strong foundation for the upcoming season.
Team News
Ajax Team News
Ajax will likely field a strong starting lineup, aiming to get their best players more minutes on the pitch.
Key players like Devyne Rensch, Kenneth Taylor, and Diant Ramaj are expected to feature.
However, several key players, including Brian Brobbey, Steven Bergwijn, Josip Sutalo, and Borna Sosa, are unavailable due to their involvement in Euro 2024.
Rangers Team News
Rangers are expected to rotate their squad, giving playing time to both new signings and tenured squad members.
Notable absentees include long-term injuries Danilo and Zak Lovelace, and Todd Cantwell, who is set to leave the club.
Summer signings Connor Barron, Clinton Nsiala, and Jefte may get more minutes, while goalkeeper Liam Kelly could also make an appearance after joining from Motherwell.
Prediction
Ajax have the edge in this encounter, primarily due to their advanced stage in pre-season preparations compared to Rangers.
With Farioli’s side eager to impress and build fitness, Ajax are likely to come out on top.
We predict a 1-0 victory for Ajax, considering their recent form and the need to gain momentum before competitive fixtures begin.
