Real Sociedad vs Ajax Prediction - Europa League Fixtures
The Europa League clash between Real Sociedad and Ajax at the Reale Arena promises to be an intriguing match. Scheduled for 28 November 2024 at 20:00, this game is crucial for Real Sociedad, who need a victory to keep their playoff hopes alive. Despite Real Sociedad’s inconsistency, their recent home win over Barcelona provides a confidence boost.
Ajax, sitting comfortably in second place with 10 points, boast attacking form, having scored an average of 2.80 goals in their last five games. However, with top scorer Mika Godts sidelined, they face a challenge. Injuries also plague both teams, with key players like Alvaro Odriozola and Hamari Traore out for Real Sociedad.
Weather conditions at the Reale Arena are expected to be chilly at 5°C with scattered clouds, and a light wind speed of 2.62 m/s. Real Sociedad will look to leverage their home advantage, and with bookmakers favoring them at odds of 1.85 to win, it could be a prudent bet.
Our Prediction:
- Real Sociedad to win.
- Recommended bet odds: 1.83.
Real Sociedad vs Ajax Prediction & Betting tip
Our recommended betting tip for this Europa League match is a win for Real Sociedad. Here’s why:
Real Sociedad needs a victory to keep their playoff hopes alive, giving them motivation.
Ajax’s top scorer, Mika Godts, is sidelined with an injury, which hampers their goal-scoring potential.
Real Sociedad recently showed their mettle with a home win over Barcelona, boosting their confidence.
- Real Sociedad’s Playoff Hopes: A win is crucial for their Europa League progression.
- Injury Concerns for Ajax: Key player injuries, notably Mika Godts, weaken their attack.
- Home Advantage: Recent impressive home performances, like the victory against Barcelona, bolster confidence.
Real Sociedad vs Ajax Odds
Real Sociedad enters this match as the bookmaker’s favorite, with odds of 1.85 for a home win. This is due to their performances and the crucial need for a victory to keep their playoff hopes alive. In contrast, Ajax, despite their impressive overall season performance, have been given odds of 4.06 for an away win. Their challenges are compounded by key injuries and a suspension affecting their lineup.
| Real Sociedad vs. Ajax Betting Odds | |
|---|---|
| Bet | Odds |
| Real Sociedad | 1.85 |
| Draw | 3.65 |
| Ajax | 4.06 |
Real Sociedad Team Analysis
Real Sociedad have shown a mixed bag of results in their last five matches, with three wins and two losses. Here are their latest results:
| Home team | Away team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Athletic Bilbao | Real Sociedad | 1-0 (Loss) |
| Jove Espanol | Real Sociedad | 0-5 (Win) |
| Real Sociedad | Barcelona | 1-0 (Win) |
| Viktoria Plzen | Real Sociedad | 2-1 (Loss) |
| Sevilla | Real Sociedad | 0-2 (Win) |
Real Sociedad Key Players
Real Sociedad’s key players will need to be at their best against a formidable Ajax side. Mikel Oyarzabal, a versatile forward, continues to be a crucial attacking threat. Ander Barrenetxea, their top scorer with 1 goal, can also be pivotal if he finds his scoring form.
Another standout is goalkeeper Alex Remiro, who has garnered interest from top European clubs like Inter Milan. His shot-stopping abilities could be vital in keeping Ajax’s potent attack at bay.
Midfield maestro Martin Zubimendi, who has been in impressive form, should control the midfield battles.
Expected lineup for Real Sociedad:
- Goalkeeper: Alex Remiro
- Defenders: Jon Aramburu, Igor Zubeldia, Nayef Aguerd, Aihen Muñoz
- Midfielders: Martín Zubimendi, Luka Sucic, Brais Méndez
- Forwards: Takefusa Kubo, Sheraldo Becker, Mikel Oyarzabal
Real Sociedad Suspensions & Injuries
Real Sociedad face some selection headaches due to injuries, which could impact their game plan against Ajax. Here are the current injury concerns:
| Player | Injury | Expected return |
|---|---|---|
| Hamari Traore | Cruciate ligament injury | Out for the season |
| Orri Steinn Óskarsson | Muscle injury | Mid-December 2024 |
| Álvaro Odriozola | Muscle injury | Early December 2024 |
| Urko González de Zárate | Muscle injury | Early December 2024 |
With key defenders Hamari Traore and Álvaro Odriozola out, Real Sociedad may struggle to maintain their defensive solidity. No suspensions are reported, which is a glimmer of hope for Imanol Alguacil’s side. This match will test the depth of their squad. Their ability to cope with these absences will be crucial if they are to secure a much-needed victory and keep their Europa League hopes alive.
Real Sociedad Tactics and Formation
Real Sociedad Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 4-2-3-1
- Key Forward: Mikel Oyarzabal
- Midfield Pair: Martín Zubimendi, Luka Sucic
- Wingers: Takefusa Kubo (Right), Sheraldo Becker (Left)
Real Sociedad, under Imanol Alguacil, typically set up in a well-drilled 4-2-3-1 formation, aiming to maintain a balance between attack and defense.
Álex Remiro, who has been solid in goal and is attracting interest from top clubs like Inter Milan, is expected to start between the posts. Defensively, they average 1.5 goals conceded in the Europa League, with Igor Zubeldia and Nayef Aguerd providing the center-back partnership. Jon Aramburu and Aihen Muñoz occupy the full-back positions, offering both defensive solidity and width in attack.
In midfield, the duo of Martín Zubimendi and Luka Sucic will be pivotal for breaking up play and initiating transitions. Zubimendi, who has caught the eye of Real Madrid, adds defensive stability, while Sucic brings creativity.
The attacking quartet is led by captain Mikel Oyarzabal, who will spearhead the attack with support from attacking midfielders and wingers.
Overall, Real Sociedad will look to harness their home form and clinical finishing to edge out a crucial win.
Ajax Team Analysis
Ajax have been in solid form recently, achieving a series of commendable results in their last five matches:
| Home team | Away team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Ajax | PEC Zwolle | 2-0 (Win) |
| FC Twente | Ajax | 2-2 (Draw) |
| Ajax | Maccabi Tel Aviv | 5-0 (Win) |
| Ajax | PSV Eindhoven | 3-2 (Win) |
| Feyenoord | Ajax | 0-2 (Win) |
Ajax Key Players
Expected lineup for Ajax:
- Goalkeeper: Remko Pasveer
- Defenders: Devyne Rensch, Josip Sutalo, Youri Baas, Jorrel Hato
- Midfielders: Kian Fitz-Jim, Jordan Henderson, Branco van den Boomen
- Attackers: Bertrand Traore, Steven Berghuis, Brian Brobbey
Ajax will look to their leading goalscorer, Mika Godts, who has 3 goals, although he might miss the match due to a hamstring injury. Brian Brobbey will be crucial in attack, aiming to challenge Real Sociedad’s defenders, Zubeldia and Aguerd. Jordan Henderson and Branco van den Boomen will also play significant roles in midfield battles against Zubimendi and Sucic, controlling the tempo and providing key passes.
Ajax Suspensions & Injuries
Ajax face some significant challenges ahead of their Europa League clash against Real Sociedad due to suspensions and injuries. Kenneth Taylor will be sidelined through suspension due to accumulated yellow cards, which will be a blow to their midfield stability.
Injuries
| Player | Injury | Expected return |
|---|---|---|
| Gaston Avila | Knee injury | Doubtful |
| Amourricho van Axel Dongen | Knock injury | Doubtful |
| Sivert Mannsverk | Ankle injury | Doubtful |
| Julian Rijkhoff | Knee injury | Doubtful |
| Mika Godts | Hamstring injury | Early December 2024 |
Suspensions
| Player | Suspension | Expected return |
|---|---|---|
| Kenneth Taylor | Accumulated yellow cards | 1 match |
The absence of these key players, especially Kenneth Taylor and possibly Mika Godts, may impact Ajax’s attacking and midfield efficiency. This game’s outcome could hinge on how well Ajax adjusts to these challenges.
Ajax Tactics and Formation
Ajax Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 4-3-3
- Key Forward: Brian Brobbey
- Midfield Trio: Kian Fitz-Jim, Jordan Henderson, Branco van den Boomen
- Defensive Strength: Three clean sheets in the last five games.
- Notable Strategy:
Dominant in the possession game, aiming to control the tempo. Utilizes high pressing to recover the ball quickly. Likely to exploit the wings, with Bertrand Traore and Steven Berghuis contributing to a dynamic attack. Ajax’s adaptability and depth in the midfield allow them to dictate play and create numerous scoring opportunities. With Kenneth Taylor suspended, midfield adjustments are crucial for maintaining their fluid style.
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