Ajax will host Sparta in a matchup of two volatile teams from the top half of the Eredivisie table. The Amsterdam team is fifth with 44 points, while Rotterdam is seventh with 38 points. The hosts have won only once in their last five matches and are regularly conceding goals – four of those matches have seen goals in both directions. The visitors, on the other hand, have scored in every other match but are defending poorly, as evidenced by their negative goal-scoring record.
The teams drew 3-3 in the first half, and a similar scenario is quite likely. Sparta has been quite bold on the road: four of their last five away matches have seen goals in both directions. Ajax's defense is far from ideal, as evidenced by their goals conceded against Groningen and PEC Zwolle in recent matches.
Ajax are considered the favorites, but the hosts are currently going through a tough time; the rivals traditionally play high-scoring matches against each other and will likely delight fans with a friendly exchange.
