Ajax vs FC Utrecht
Eredivisie
Sunday
3rd March 2024
Amsterdam ArenA
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the Eredivisie fixture between Ajax and FC Utrecht.
Ajax vs FC Utrecht: Preview
Ajax form analysis
Ajax’s recent form paints the picture of an attacking powerhouse prone to defensive lapses. On January 28th, they outscored Heracles 4-2 in a thriller thanks to goals from Brobbey, Berghuis and a Brobbey brace. However, two concessions against opposition they would expect to beat highlights issues at the back. This was evident again during the 1-1 home draw against title rivals PSV on February 4th – Berghuis scored for Ajax but defensive mistakes allowed de Jong to equalize as they dropped points. Their defensive troubles continued away to Heerenveen on February 11th. They collapsed in the second half to lose 3-2 after going in 1-0 up.
Despite pulling two goals back, Akpom struck late to condemn Ajax to a shock defeat. They displayed powers of recovery by coming from behind to lead NEC 2-1 on February 18th, but conceded late once more as Róber equalized in the 90th minute to force a 2-2 draw. Most recently on February 25th, Ajax fell 2-0 away to AZ Van Bommel netting twice as their title hopes took a dent. Overall, Ajax’s form shows a thrilling yet unpredictable side – they carry lots of goal threat but remain prone to dropping points by switching off defensively. Addressing these concentration issues will be vital for their title run-in.
FC Utrecht form analysis
Utrecht’s recent form suggests a team still searching for consistency but whose fortunes appear to be trending upwards. They have remained defensively solid for much of this stretch while gradually seeing their attack click into gear. On January 28th away to Excelsior, Utrecht took an early lead through Toornstra but conceded late to draw 1-1 – highlighting lingering issues turning dominance into wins. This changed on February 4th when they outscored Volendam 4-2 in an entertaining game, with hat-trick hero Booth leading the show.
Utrecht built on this offensive showing by dismantling Fortuna Sittard 4-0 on February 11th. Booth, Boussaid, another Booth goal and Lammers rounded off an emphatic victory. Toornstra scored again as they edged past an in-form Twente 1-0 on February 18th – a resolute display built on defensive organization. Most recently, Jensen struck late as Utrecht beat Heracles 1-0 on February 24th to make it 10 points from a possible 15. With defensive stability now matched by growing potency in attack, Utrecht’s form suggests they could make a late push for Europe.
