Preview: Union Saint-Gilloise vs Ajax
The upcoming Europa League fixture brings a thrilling showdown between Union Saint-Gilloise and Ajax. As they meet for the first leg, Union aims for a strong performance on home turf. They've shown resilience, having secured an unbeaten streak in 10 home matches. Ajax, carrying the legacy of Dutch football, look to maintain their formidable form with eight wins in their last 10 games. However, both squads face challenges, with injuries and suspensions impacting their strategies.
Union Saint-Gilloise approach the game with a few changes forced by the absence of Ross Sykes and Ousseynou Niang due to suspensions, while Sofiane Boufal's participation hangs in the balance. Their predicted lineup shows a 3-5-2 formation, designed to enhance both defensive solidity and midfield control. Key players include Kevin Mac Allister, whose propensity for receiving cards could be a talking point, and Franjo Ivanovic, a likely threat to Ajax's defenses alongside partner Fuseini.
- Union Saint-Gilloise: Moris; Mac Allister, Burgess, Leysen; Khalaili, Rasmussen, Vanhoutte, Sadiki, Machida; Fuseini, Ivanovic.
Ajax's Strategy and Key Players
On the other side, Ajax step into the ring facing their own set of hurdles. With Wout Weghorst, Youri Regeer, and Mike Godts sidelined due to injuries, they may call on veteran Jordan Henderson to stabilize the midfield in their usual 4-3-3 setup. He's expected to play a vital role in linking defense and attack. While they miss key players, confidence runs high with talented forwards like Brobbey and Berghuis, ready to pierce through Union's defenses.
- Ajax: Pasveer; Gaaei, Sutalo, Baas, Hato; Fitz-Jim, Henderson, Taylor; Traore, Brobbey, Berghuis.
While predictions lean towards a 2-2 draw, it's wise not to rule out surprise elements in this Europa League encounter. Experts emphasize the likelihood of both teams finding the net, supported by Union's record in nine out of their last eleven home games. Mac Allister's discipline record remains under scrutiny, and Ivanovic continues to be a reliable goal-scoring prospect in five of his last six home outings.
Fans eagerly await this electric contest, with live coverage provided by TNT Sports. With both teams bringing passion and determination to the pitch, it's bound to be an unmissable fixture for football enthusiasts.
