# | Team | P | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | PTS |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
7 |
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2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 5 | 2 | +3 | 3 |
35 |
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2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 6 | -6 | 0 |
Marseille are showing inconsistent but generally positive momentum. In their last five matches, the team has secured three wins against two defeats. Notably, both failures came away from home against Lyon and Real, while at home, L'OM look formidable: confident victories over Lorient (4-0) and, crucially, over Paris Saint-Germain (1-0). Their attack is functioning effectively – in three of the five matches, the team scored two or more goals. However, the defense periodically falters, conceding at least one goal in four of the five outings. The derby win over PSG should significantly boost the squad's morale.
Ajax are in a state of searching for stability. In the Eredivisie, the team is unbeaten in three rounds (two wins, one draw), demonstrating high scoring efficiency – seven goals in these matches. However, in the Champions League, the Dutch side suffered a crushing home defeat to Inter (0-2), which revealed serious problems when facing a top-class opponent. The main trend for Ajax is a vulnerable defense. The team has conceded at least one goal in four of their last five games, and even in league matches against underdogs like Volendam and NAC Breda, they failed to keep a clean sheet.
The head-to-head history is limited to one game, but it is extremely telling. In November 2023, Marseille secured a home victory with a 4-3 scoreline in the Europa League. This result fits perfectly with the current trends of both teams: Marseille's high scoring efficiency in attack at home and Ajax's chronic defensive problems away against strong opponents.
The tactical axis of the match will revolve around the clash between the hosts' attacking potential and the visitors' fragile defense. Marseille, relying on the support of the Stade Vélodrome, will play aggressively and at a high tempo, utilizing set-pieces and the individual quality of their forwards. The weakness of Ajax's central defense, especially in high-pressure matches, was evident in the game against Inter. The Dutch side, in turn, will rely on fast counter-attacks and ball possession, but their attacking model will inevitably leave space behind the defenders, which Marseille's speedy frontline can exploit. A key factor will be an early goal – if the hosts open the scoring, it will force Ajax to push forward and make them even more vulnerable to counter-attacks.
Based on the analysis, Marseille are the clear favorite. The team holds an overwhelming advantage in squad quality, has confidence after the win over PSG, and is playing at home, where they consistently deliver high-level performances. Ajax, meanwhile, regularly experience defensive issues in away matches against top-tier teams, as confirmed in their recent game against Inter. A high-scoring victory for the hosts is expected. Recommended bet: Home Win. Predicted score: 3-1.