Ajax vs FC Volendam Prediction, Match Preview, Saturday, 24 January

Ajax will host FC Volendam at the Johan Cruijff ArenA on Saturday, 24 January in an intriguing Eredivisie clash. This match is set to capture the attention of Dutch football fans as Ajax, one of the most successful clubs in the Netherlands, takes on FC Volendam. The Johan Cruijff ArenA, known for its vibrant atmosphere, will be the stage where these two teams battle for crucial league points.

Ajax, with their rich history and strong squad, will be looking to assert their dominance in this fixture. Meanwhile, FC Volendam will aim to challenge the hosts and possibly cause an upset. This Eredivisie encounter promises to be a fascinating contest, with both teams eager to secure a positive result. As the match unfolds, the dynamics between the teams will be crucial in determining the outcome.

Ajax vs FC Volendam Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
Ajax to Win & Over 2.5 Goals	1.65

Given Ajax’s superior home form and historical dominance over FC Volendam, betting on Ajax to win with over 2.5 goals scored is a strong choice. Ajax’s attacking prowess at the Johan Cruijff ArenA and Volendam’s shaky defensive record, especially away from home, suggest plenty of goal-scoring opportunities.

• Ajax have scored in 10 consecutive matches, demonstrating their consistent attacking threat.
• Volendam’s poor away defensive record increases the likelihood of multiple goals.
• Both teams are missing key defensive players due to suspensions, which should make for an open game with more goals.

Betting Odds

Ajax are heavy favourites in this Eredivisie clash against FC Volendam, with the home side’s odds reflecting their dominance at the Johan Cruijff ArenA. A win for Ajax is priced at 1.28, indicating strong confidence in their ability to secure three points.

Betting Tip	Odds
Ajax to win	1.28
Draw	5.78
FC Volendam to win	8.82

For those seeking value, FC Volendam’s odds of 8.82 present a tempting long shot, especially if they can capitalise on any defensive lapses. Meanwhile, a draw at 5.78 could appeal to those expecting a tighter contest than the odds suggest.

Ajax Analysis & Recent Performance

Ajax have displayed strong overall form recently, securing three victories, one draw, and suffering one defeat in their last five matches. Notably, their recent Champions League win against Villarreal (2-1) highlights their capability to perform under pressure.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Villarreal	Ajax	1 – 2 (Win)	Champions League	20 Jan, 2026
Ajax	Go Ahead Eagles	2 – 2 (Draw)	Eredivisie	17 Jan, 2026
AZ Alkmaar	Ajax	6 – 0 (Loss)	KNVB Cup	14 Jan, 2026
Telstar	Ajax	2 – 3 (Win)	Eredivisie	11 Jan, 2026
Ajax	RFC Seraing	4 – 0 (Win)	Club Friendlies	5 Jan, 2026

Recent Form:
Ajax’s attacking unit has been particularly effective, averaging 2.20 goals per match in their last five outings. Defensively, however, they have shown vulnerabilities, conceding an average of 2.20 goals per game over the same period. This imbalance is reflected in only one clean sheet achieved during these fixtures.

Their home form, with a win ratio of 0.60, is somewhat stronger than their overall performance, indicating a more secure showing at the Johan Cruijff ArenA. Key player Mika Godts continues to be pivotal, leading the team with 8 goals this season. Ajax’s third place in the Eredivisie with 34 points is a testament to their attacking prowess, although defensive solidity could be improved to maintain their standing.

Ajax’s ability to consistently score—failing to find the net only once this season—emphasises their attacking potential. However, their defensive lapses, as seen in the heavy 6-0 defeat to AZ Alkmaar in the KNVB Cup, suggest a need for strategic adjustments to enhance resilience at the back.

• WDLWW

Ajax Suspensions & Injuries

Ajax face a challenging situation with several key players unavailable due to injuries and suspensions. The groin injury to Steven Berghuis, combined with Wout Weghorst’s ankle issues, raises significant concerns about their attacking options. Both players are listed as doubtful, which could limit Ajax’s ability to break down FC Volendam’s defence. Takehiro Tomiyasu’s lack of fitness also leaves a question mark over their defensive options, potentially forcing Ajax to rely on less experienced players in crucial positions.

Player	Suspension	Matches Remaining	Expected Return
Owen Wijndal	Red card	1	Unknown

Owen Wijndal’s suspension due to a red card incident further complicates the defensive line-up for Ajax. With one match remaining in his ban, the team must adapt without his presence on the left flank. This could see Youri Baas stepping up to fill the gap, though it remains to be seen if he can match Wijndal’s influence and stability.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Steven Berghuis	Groin injury	Doubtful
Wout Weghorst	Ankle injury	Doubtful
Takehiro Tomiyasu	Lack of fitness	Doubtful

The absence of these players may necessitate a shift in tactics, potentially moving towards a more conservative setup to counteract the lack of depth. This situation could influence betting markets, with Ajax’s odds potentially reflecting these vulnerabilities against FC Volendam.

Ajax Key Players

Mika Godts stands out as Ajax’s top scorer, having netted 8 goals this season. His ability to find space and his impressive finishing skills make him a constant threat in the attacking third. Godts’ presence in the forward line is expected to be pivotal as Ajax look to capitalise on any defensive lapses from FC Volendam.

In midfield, Davy Klaassen is a crucial player for Ajax, offering both defensive cover and creative passing. His experience and tactical awareness allow him to control the tempo of the game, linking defence with attack seamlessly. Alongside Klaassen, Youri Regeer brings energy and dynamism, often contributing to both offensive and defensive phases, which is vital for Ajax’s midfield dominance.

Expected line-up for Ajax

• Goalkeeper: Vitezslav Jaros
• Defenders: Anton Gaaei, Ko Itakura, Aaron Bouwman, Lucas Rosa
• Midfielders: Davy Klaassen, Youri Regeer, Sean Steur
• Forwards: Rayane Bounida, Kasper Dolberg, Mika Godts

Defensively, Ko Itakura will be key to anchoring Ajax’s backline. His ability to read the game and intercept attacks is crucial to maintaining stability at the back. Itakura’s partnership with Aaron Bouwman could be central to suppressing any attacking threats from FC Volendam, ensuring Ajax can transition smoothly from defence to attack.

Ajax Tactics and Formation

Ajax Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-3-3
• Key Forward: Kasper Dolberg
• Midfield Pivot: Davy Klaassen and Youri Regeer
• Defensive Concern: No clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: Possession-based play with high pressing.

Ajax typically deploy a 4-3-3 formation that encourages fluid attacking play, focusing on maintaining possession. Davy Klaassen and Youri Regeer in midfield are pivotal, providing a blend of defensive stability and creative support, while Jorthy Mokio adds dynamism. This trio is essential in controlling the game’s tempo and transitioning play.

In attack, Kasper Dolberg leads the line, supported by wingers Oscar Gloukh and Mika Godts. Godts, the top scorer with eight goals, is crucial for breaking down defences, using his pace and finishing ability.

Defensively, Ajax have struggled to keep clean sheets, conceding in four of their last five matches. The backline, featuring Owen Wijndal and Anton Gaaei, must be more cohesive to withstand counter-attacks, especially given their high pressing approach, which can leave them vulnerable at the back.

FC Volendam Analysis & Recent Performance

FC Volendam’s recent form has been mixed, but they have managed to remain competitive in key fixtures. Their latest victory against FC Utrecht (2-1) at home was a much-needed boost, especially after a narrow defeat to AZ Alkmaar (0-1) away. However, their away form remains concerning, with four consecutive losses in the Eredivisie before their recent cup win against Sparta Rotterdam.

Home Side	Away Side	Outcome	League	Date
FC Volendam	FC Utrecht	2 – 1 (Victory)	Eredivisie	18 Jan 2026
Sparta Rotterdam	FC Volendam	1 – 2 (Victory)	KNVB Cup	15 Jan 2026
AZ Alkmaar	FC Volendam	1 – 0 (Defeat)	Eredivisie	10 Jan 2026
FC Volendam	Sparta Rotterdam	0 – 1 (Defeat)	Eredivisie	21 Dec 2025
FC Volendam	Genemuiden	0 – 0 (Extra time: 2 – 0) (Victory)	KNVB Cup	18 Dec 2025

Recent Form:
In their last five matches, FC Volendam have secured two wins and suffered three defeats. They are averaging 0.80 goals scored per game while conceding 1.80, indicating struggles in both attack and defence. Notably, they have failed to keep a clean sheet during this period, highlighting defensive vulnerabilities.

Team Statistics:
Volendam’s away performances have been particularly weak, with no wins in their last five league away games. Their overall win ratio stands at 20%, and their away win ratio is even lower at 0%. Their defensive frailties are underscored by a consistent pattern of conceding goals and their inability to maintain clean sheets.

Key Insights:

• WWLLW

Henk Veerman, with 4 goals, remains a crucial figure in Volendam’s attack. Despite their struggles, Volendam’s ability to score in critical moments, as seen in their recent cup fixtures, could serve them well. However, they must address their defensive lapses to improve their standing in the league, where they currently sit precariously at 15th with 17 points.

FC Volendam Suspensions & Injuries

FC Volendam will be without Robin van Cruijsen due to a suspension for accumulating yellow cards, which could affect their defensive stability. Van Cruijsen’s absence means that manager Rick Kruys might need to rely on a less experienced player to fill the gap, potentially altering the team’s defensive tactics and solidity.

Player	Suspension	Matches Remaining	Expected Return
Robin van Cruijsen	Yellow cards	1	Unknown

The injury list includes Anthony Descotte, who is listed as doubtful. Descotte’s uncertainty could impact the attacking options for FC Volendam, as his presence could provide much-needed depth and flexibility in the forward line. Without him, the team might have to depend more heavily on Brandley Kuwas, who was part of the last match’s forward line-up.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Anthony Descotte	Unknown	Doubtful

These absences might influence the betting markets, as FC Volendam’s reduced squad depth could make it challenging to compete against Ajax. The tactical adjustments required due to these unavailabilities might also affect their overall performance, potentially leading to a more conservative approach in the upcoming match.

FC Volendam Key Players

FC Volendam’s attacking prowess is led by their top scorer Henk Veerman, who has netted 4 goals this season. Veerman’s physical presence and ability to hold up play make him a constant threat to any defence, particularly when supported by the dynamic duo of Brandley Kuwas and Joel Ideho in the forward line. Kuwas, known for his pace and creativity, often provides the necessary width and crosses that Veerman thrives on.

Nordin Bukala, operating in midfield, plays a crucial role in linking defence and attack. His vision and passing range could be pivotal in unlocking Ajax’s defence. Defensively, Mawouna Amevor and Nick Verschuren are tasked with maintaining solidity at the back, with Amevor’s aerial strength being a key asset during set pieces. Their ability to coordinate the backline will be essential against Ajax’s attacking threats.

Expected line-up for FC Volendam:

• Goalkeeper: Kayne van Oevelen
• Defence: Precious Ugwu, Mawouna Amevor, Nick Verschuren, Yannick Leliendal
• Midfield: Dave Kwakman, Ozan Kökcü, Nordin Bukala
• Forward: Aurelio Oehlers, Brandley Kuwas, Joel Ideho

FC Volendam Tactics and Formation

FC Volendam Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Brandley Kuwas
• Midfield Pivot: Dave Kwakman and Aurelio Oehlers
• Defensive Strength: Struggles with clean sheets, none in the last five games.
• Notable Strategy: Quick transitions and reliance on set pieces for opportunities.

FC Volendam’s 4-2-3-1 formation is designed to provide width and support in both attack and defence. With Brandley Kuwas leading the line, the team relies on his ability to hold up play and create opportunities. The midfield pivot of Dave Kwakman and Aurelio Oehlers is tasked with breaking up opposition play and initiating counter-attacks.

Defensively, FC Volendam have shown vulnerability, conceding in all of their last five games, which underscores the need for greater defensive cohesion. The backline, featuring Precious Ugwu and Mawouna Amevor, needs to improve positioning and communication to avoid lapses.

Offensively, FC Volendam aim to exploit quick transitions and set pieces, recognising the need to capitalise on their limited chances. The creative play from midfielders like Nordin Bukala and Ozan Kökcü will be crucial in breaking down opposition defences.

Ajax vs FC Volendam Head-to-Head Record

Ajax have dominated the head-to-head record against FC Volendam with 9 wins, while Volendam have managed just 1 victory and there have been 4 draws. The last time these two met was in August 2025, ending in a 1-1 draw at Volendam’s ground in the Eredivisie.

The last time Ajax hosted Volendam in the Eredivisie was in November 2023, where Ajax secured a solid 2-0 win. Ajax’s home form against Volendam has been strong, with their attacking prowess evident in the 32 goals scored across these encounters.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
FC Volendam	Ajax	1 – 1	Eredivisie	2025-08-30
FC Volendam	Ajax	1 – 4	Eredivisie	2024-05-05
Ajax	FC Volendam	2 – 0	Eredivisie	2023-11-02
Ajax	FC Volendam	1 – 1	Eredivisie	2023-01-26
Ajax	FC Volendam	5 – 4	Club Friendlies	2022-12-07