The UEFA Champions League (UCL) heats up as two European heavyweights collide at the Stade Vélodrome. Olympique de Marseille hosts Ajax in the second round of the new league phase, with both sides desperate to bounce back after opening defeats.
Marseille’s Form and Motivation
Marseille enters this tie on the back of a mixed European and domestic run. Despite losing their opening UCL fixture 2-1 to Real Madrid, Roberto De Zerbi’s men showed resilience by recording back-to-back Ligue 1 victories. A rare and statement win over PSG was followed by a 2-1 triumph against Strasbourg, leaving the Olympians on the hunt for their first run of three straight wins since February.
However, their Champions League history remains a dark cloud—Marseille have lost 19 of their last 22 UCL matches. Encouragingly, they boast an unbeaten streak of nine at home in European competitions (W7, D2), making the Stade Vélodrome a fortress when continental nights come alive.
Ajax’s Struggles and Domestic Cushion
Ajax also started with a defeat, falling 2-0 to Inter Milan. Historically, the Dutch giants have stumbled in this competition, winning just two of their last nine UCL outings, both against Rangers. Not since 2012/13 have Ajax lost their opening two matches of a UCL campaign.
Still, they remain unbeaten in the Eredivisie this season (W4, D3), offering a degree of confidence. But their European form has been inconsistent, and their struggles to manage big-game pressure could prove costly on French soil.
Head-to-Head (H2H) Edge
This fixture carries history:
- Marseille are unbeaten in their last five matches vs Ajax (W3, D2).
- At home against Dutch opposition, Marseille have lost just once in eight matches (W5, D2).
The psychological advantage may lean towards the French side, especially with the Stade Vélodrome atmosphere behind them.
Hot Stats and Trends
- Four of Marseille’s seven matches this season have featured a red card.
- The Olympians have managed just one clean sheet in their last 22 UCL games.
- Four of Ajax’s last five fixtures saw both teams score.
- None of Ajax’s last 20 European matches have ended 0-0, with 15 producing at least two goals.
Everything points to goals and drama.
Key Players to Watch
- Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (Marseille): Nine of his last 12 goals have come in the second half, including late decisive strikes.
- Wout Weghorst (Ajax): The towering striker often delivers clutch moments, with eight of his last nine goals being the first or last of a match.
Missing Players
- Marseille: Geoffrey Kondogbia, Hamed Traoré.
- Ajax: Kasper Dolberg (likely out).
Prediction: Marseille vs Ajax
Both sides are vulnerable at the back but possess lethal forwards capable of turning the game. Marseille’s home record and recent momentum tilt this contest slightly in their favour, but Ajax’s scoring consistency means a thriller is expected.
Predicted Scoreline: Marseille 2-1 Ajax
- Both teams to score: ✅
- Over 2.5 goals: ✅
Betting Insights for Kenyan Fans
With both clubs chasing their first UCL points of the season, expect an attacking, open game. Goals are on the cards, making markets like Over 2.5 goals and Both Teams to Score strong picks. Aubameyang, as a potential anytime scorer is also worth a look, given his current form.
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