Ajax vs Marseille
UEFA Europa League
Group B
Thursday
21st September 2023
Amsterdam ArenA
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of matchday 1 of the UEFA Europa League fixture between Ajax and Marseille.
Ajax vs Marseille: Preview
Ajax form analysis
AFC Ajax began this period by twice surrendering the lead in a 2-2 away draw at Excelsior in the Eredivisie opener. Brobbey put them ahead but defensive errors allowed Excelsior to equalize twice.
They quickly bounced back by demolishing Ludogorets 4-1 away in the Champions League playoff first leg thanks to a Kudus hat-trick. However, a shock 0-1 home loss in the second leg saw Ajax dumped out on away goals in a huge upset.
Domestically, their form has remained inconsistent. Following a drab 0-0 draw away at Fortuna Sittard, Ajax then suffered a disappointing 1-3 home defeat last time out to Twente, going behind early before Brobbey’s reply proved a consolation.
Overall, it’s been an extremely concerning spell for Ajax as they crashed out of Europe and struggled for form in the league. New coach Alfred Schreuder has plenty of work ahead to turn things around after this difficult start.
Marseille form analysis
Marseille have had an inconsistent start to the season. They opened their Champions League campaign with a narrow 2-1 win over Panathinaikos thanks to a brace from Aubameyang, showing some attacking threat.
However, they could only manage a 2-2 draw away to Metz in Ligue 1 despite taking an early lead through Soglo. Defensive frailties were exposed as they conceded twice in the second half to Mikautadze and Vítinha.
Marseille bounced back with a solid 2-0 home win over Brest with goals from Mbemba and Sarr, demonstrating defensive improvement. But their next Ligue 1 match saw them drop points again in a 1-1 draw with Nantes. This despite Sarr giving them an early lead. Meupiyou equalized for Nantes in the first half.
Their most recent match was a goalless draw at home to Toulouse, indicating a lack of cutting edge up front. Overall, Marseille have shown promise going forward thanks to Aubameyang and Sarr. However, they need to improve defensively and tighten up at the back.
