Heracles Almelo has been a consistent challenge for Ajax Amsterdam in recent years, once even considered a potential stumbling block for the Amsterdam team. However, the last two encounters saw the record champions securing victories with a three-goal margin. Heading into the winter break, Heracles faced a tough phase, losing six of their last seven league matches (W1). Nonetheless, the first two games of 2024 yielded four crucial points, establishing a modest yet significant gap from the relegation zone.
The addition of Jordy Bruijn to the Heracles squad brought promise, as he had two significant opportunities in his debut match last weekend. However, it was Jizz Hornkamp, back in action since the first round, who emerged as the sole Heracles player to score in the 1-1 draw against Volendam. Defensive issues persist for Heracles, as they currently rank second only to Volendam in goals conceded (41) in the competition.
Ajax seems to be regaining stability under John van ‘t Schip’s guidance, winning six of their last seven matches (D1). Climbing back to fifth place, they are now just three points away from the fourth-placed AZ. The Amsterdam team, fueled by the knowledge that both Twente and AZ dropped points in the previous round, is eager to maintain this positive trend.
Although new signing Jordan Henderson remains uncertain for this weekend, the anticipation of having the 81-time England international contribute is a source of joy for the team. His experience is expected to instill hope amid the aftermath of the club’s worst period in history. However, defensive improvements are still necessary, given that Ajax has conceded goals in their last eight matches across all competitions. Their defensive record in the Eredivisie falls short even compared to clubs like PEC Zwolle, Fortuna Sittard, and FC Utrecht, not to mention the notable contrast with other top-five clubs.
Players to watch: Brian Brobbey has scored eight times in his last six matches against Dutch teams. Meanwhile, Mario Engels, who netted his first goal for Heracles in the previous encounter with Ajax, has since added three more goals in the competition.
Hot stat: Ajax has been unable to keep a clean sheet in their last 11 official away matches, despite scoring in ten of those games.
