This Sunday, Philips Stadion in Eindhoven will host a key Eredivisie match as reigning champions PSV face Ajax. This is the 188th meeting of these two Dutch teams, and the pressure is particularly high. Expectations are for plenty of goals in this match, making it a good opportunity for betting.
Match Preview
PSV, managed by Peter Bosz, has made a strong start this season with 17 goals in just five matches, leading the league in scoring. However, their defense has been shaky, conceding eight goals, especially after losing 0-2 to Telstar and facing defeat against Union Saint-Gilloise in the Champions League. PSV is at risk of losing three consecutive home games for the first time in a long while, and Ajax was previously involved in a similar situation for them.
Despite the defensive issues, PSV’s attack remains impressive. Players like Perišić, Saibari, van Bommel, and Pepi consistently present threats. Joey Veerman stands out, having created 15 significant chances this season, playing a key role in transitioning from defense to offense.
Ajax, under John Heitinga, is starting with a cautious optimism after a tough last season. They’re yet to lose a league match but haven’t secured an away win either, with two draws against Go Ahead Eagles and Volendam highlighting their struggles. They have also conceded in five consecutive away games, which poses problems against PSV’s strong offense.
For Ajax, Weghorst has made a notable impact with three goals and one assist. The potential absence of Berghuis could hinder their creativity, but players like Taylor and Weghorst are equipped to fill that role. Ajax badly needs to boost their confidence in challenging matches, hoping to replicate their 2-0 victory in Eindhoven last March.
Probable Lineups
- PSV: Kovar, Sildillia, Flamengo, Gasiorowski, Dest, Til, Veerman, Perišić, Saibari, van Bommel, Pepi
- Ajax: Jaros, Gaaei, Sutalo, Baas, Wijndal, Taylor, Fitz-Jim, Moro, Klaassen, Gloukh, Weghorst
Match Facts and Head-to-Head:
- Ajax remains unbeaten in their last three matches against PSV (2 wins, 1 draw).
- PSV has scored more goals than any other Eredivisie team after five rounds, totaling 17 goals.
- Ajax has yet to win an away match this season.
Prediction
Despite recent struggles, PSV remains a strong force at home, particularly in derby matches. Ajax’s defense may not hold up against Eindhoven’s aggressive attack. A high-scoring game with a home win seems likely.