PEC Zwolle vs Ajax Prediction, Match Preview and Betting Tips, Sunday, March 1st

This Sunday, 1 March, the Eredivisie presents an intriguing encounter as PEC Zwolle face Ajax at the MAC3PARK Stadion. Both teams are vying for crucial points, making this a significant fixture in the Dutch league. Ajax, traditionally one of the Eredivisie powerhouses, will look to assert their dominance against PEC Zwolle, who will be eager to make the most of their home advantage.

Ajax’s visit to PEC Zwolle is more than just another fixture; it represents a pivotal moment in the league standings. Renowned for their attacking prowess, Ajax will aim for victory to maintain their position at the top of the table. Meanwhile, PEC Zwolle will be determined to challenge the visitors and potentially cause an upset. The MAC3PARK Stadion is set to witness a competitive battle as both sides bring their best to the pitch.

PEC Zwolle vs Ajax Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
Over 2.5 goals	1.55

With PEC Zwolle hosting Ajax, we anticipate a high-scoring match given both teams’ attacking strengths. Our recommended betting tip is ‘Over 2.5 goals’, as both sides have consistently found the net this season.

• PEC Zwolle have scored 34 goals in 24 games, demonstrating their attacking capability.
• Ajax are among the top offensive teams, netting 47 goals in the same number of matches.
• Their previous encounter this season produced 4 goals, suggesting another high-scoring affair is likely.

Betting Odds

Ajax enter this Eredivisie clash as clear favourites with odds of 1.74, reflecting their strong form this season. However, PEC Zwolle, priced at 4.11, could provide a tempting upset for those backing the underdog, especially with their home advantage.

Betting Tip	Odds
PEC Zwolle to win	4.11
Draw	4.12
Ajax to win	1.74

A draw is also an interesting option at 4.12, indicating bookmakers see the potential for a closely contested match. For those interested in goal markets, Ajax’s attacking prowess makes the over 2.5 goals market worth considering.

PEC Zwolle Analysis & Past Performance

PEC Zwolle’s recent form has been inconsistent, with just one win in their last five matches, alongside one draw and three defeats, including a 4-2 loss to SC Heerenveen and a narrow 2-1 defeat to FC Volendam.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
FC Utrecht	PEC Zwolle	1 – 1 (Draw)	Eredivisie	22 Feb 2026
SC Heerenveen	PEC Zwolle	4 – 2 (Loss)	Eredivisie	15 Feb 2026
PEC Zwolle	FC Volendam	1 – 2 (Loss)	Eredivisie	7 Feb 2026
PEC Zwolle	Telstar	4 – 1 (Win)	Eredivisie	31 Jan 2026
NEC Nijmegen	PEC Zwolle	2 – 1 (Loss)	Eredivisie	24 Jan 2026

Recent Form:
PEC Zwolle have struggled defensively, conceding an average of 2.00 goals per game over their last five fixtures. They have not kept a single clean sheet in this period, highlighting defensive vulnerabilities. Offensively, they have averaged 1.80 goals per game, with Koen Kostons making a key contribution, scoring 10 goals this season.

Despite their struggles, PEC Zwolle have shown some resilience at home, winning three of their last five home fixtures. However, their overall home form remains mixed, with a win ratio of 0.60. Currently 12th in the league with 27 points, Zwolle’s challenge will be to tighten up defensively while maintaining their attacking threat.

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PEC Zwolle Suspensions & Injuries

PEC Zwolle will be without some key players, which could significantly affect their tactical setup. Jan Faberski is suspended due to a red card, leaving a gap in the defensive line. This absence may force coach Henry van der Vegt to reshuffle his defence, possibly promoting a less experienced player to fill Faberski’s role. The suspension comes at a crucial time, and the team must adapt quickly to maintain defensive solidity against Ajax’s potent attack.

Player	Suspension	Matches Remaining	Expected Return
Jan Faberski	Red card	1	Unknown

Injuries further complicate PEC Zwolle’s situation, with goalkeeper Jasper Schendelaar doubtful due to a hip injury. If unavailable, Tom de Graaff is expected to step in. The midfield will also be without Ryan Thomas and Samir Lagsir, which could impact both creativity and defensive balance. These absences may require tactical adjustments, such as a more conservative approach or a change in formation, to cover the gaps left by these key players.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Jasper Schendelaar	Hip injury	Doubtful

The unavailability of these players could influence betting markets, as PEC Zwolle’s squad depth is tested. Bettors may find value in considering Ajax’s chances, given Zwolle’s compromised lineup. The tactical impact of these absences is likely to be felt, especially in terms of possession and defensive organisation.

PEC Zwolle Key Players

Koen Kostons is PEC Zwolle’s top scorer this season with 10 goals, highlighting his clinical finishing and ability to find space in the box. His performance will be vital as Zwolle seek to challenge Ajax’s defence. Kostons’ striking prowess and movement make him a constant threat and focal point in their attack.

In midfield, Zico Buurmeester and Thijs Oosting play crucial roles. Buurmeester’s control of the tempo and effective distribution are key to Zwolle’s strategy, while Oosting’s energy and box-to-box play can disrupt Ajax’s midfield rhythm. In defence, Simon Graves Jensen is expected to marshal the backline with his aerial strength and composure, which will be essential to maintain defensive solidity against Ajax’s potent attack.

Expected lineup for PEC Zwolle

• Goalkeeper: Tom de Graaff
• Defence: Tristan Gooijer, Simon Graves Jensen, Anselmo Garcia MacNulty, Sherel Floranus
• Midfield: Nick Fichtinger, Zico Buurmeester, Thijs Oosting
• Forward: Younes Namli, Shola Shoretire, Koen Kostons

PEC Zwolle’s tactical approach will heavily rely on these key players to exploit any weaknesses in Ajax’s setup. Kostons’ goal-scoring ability, combined with the midfield’s orchestration and a solid defensive line, offers a balanced approach. However, maintaining consistency across all areas will be crucial to withstand Ajax’s aggressive playing style.

PEC Zwolle Tactics and Formation

PEC Zwolle Tactical Breakdown:

• Recent Formation: 4-3-3
• Key Forward: Koen Kostons
• Midfield Trio: Thijs Oosting, Nick Fichtinger, Zico Buurmeester
• Defensive Concerns: Conceded in all last five games, no clean sheets.
• Notable Strategy: High pressing and wide play through Namli and Shoretire.

In recent matches, PEC Zwolle have primarily used a 4-3-3 formation, allowing them to make the most of their attacking talents such as Younes Namli and Shola Shoretire on the flanks. This setup helps them stretch the opposition’s defence and utilise the pace and creativity of their wingers.

The midfield trio of Thijs Oosting, Nick Fichtinger, and Zico Buurmeester offers a balance of defensive cover and attacking support, which is crucial for transitioning from defence to attack. Their roles are pivotal in maintaining possession and launching counter-attacks.

Defensively, PEC Zwolle have struggled, failing to keep a clean sheet in their last five games. The backline, including Simon Graves Jensen and Anselmo Garcia MacNulty, faces a tough task against Ajax’s potent attack. The absence of players like Ryan Thomas due to injury may require tactical adjustments from coach Henry van der Vegt.

Ajax Analysis & Past Performance

Ajax’s recent form has been mixed, with just one win in their last five matches across all competitions. This includes a notable 4-1 win against Fortuna Sittard and a hard-fought 1-1 draw with NEC Nijmegen. However, their away form has shown some resilience, with two wins, two draws, and one defeat in their last five away fixtures.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Ajax	NEC Nijmegen	1 – 1 (Draw)	Eredivisie	21 Feb 2026
Ajax	Fortuna Sittard	4 – 1 (Win)	Eredivisie	14 Feb 2026
AZ Alkmaar	Ajax	1 – 1 (Draw)	Eredivisie	8 Feb 2026
Excelsior	Ajax	2 – 2 (Draw)	Eredivisie	1 Feb 2026
Ajax	Olympiacos	1 – 2 (Loss)	Champions League	28 Jan 2026

Recent Form:
Ajax have averaged 1.80 goals per game in their last five fixtures, demonstrating consistent attacking strength. Despite this, they have conceded an average of 1.40 goals per match, indicating defensive vulnerabilities. Notably, Ajax have failed to keep a clean sheet in their last five matches, with both teams scoring in each, highlighting the need for improved defensive organisation.

Ajax currently sit 4th in the league with 43 points, reflecting a challenging season. They have drawn 10 of their 24 matches, which has hindered their ability to dominate the league. The team’s top scorer, Mika Godts, has been a standout performer with 13 goals, playing a crucial role in sustaining their attacking output.

• DWDDL

Ajax Suspensions & Injuries

Ajax face a challenging situation with several key players sidelined through injury. Oleksandr Zinchenko and Vítězslav Jaroš are both out for the season with knee injuries, significantly reducing the team’s depth. Zinchenko’s versatility in defence and midfield is a major loss, while Jaroš’ absence affects the goalkeeping options. Ko Itakura is also sidelined with an unspecified injury and is not expected to return until mid-March, further complicating Ajax’s defensive setup.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Oleksandr Zinchenko	Knee injury	Out for season
Ko Itakura	Unknown	Mid March 2026
Vítězslav Jaroš	Knee injury	Out for season

With these injuries, Ajax will need to rely on less experienced players to fill the gaps. This could mean promoting younger talents from the bench or making tactical adjustments. Maarten Paes is expected to continue as the primary goalkeeper, while Josip Šutalo may be required to step up in defence. These changes could force Ajax to adopt a more conservative strategy, focusing on defensive solidity.

These injuries may impact the betting markets, as Ajax’s weakened squad could alter their odds against PEC Zwolle. The absence of key players may push Ajax to adopt a less aggressive style, potentially affecting their attacking output and overall performance.

Ajax Key Players

Mika Godts is Ajax’s top scorer this season, having netted 13 goals. His dynamic presence in attack makes him a constant threat and allows him to create opportunities for teammates. Godts’ ability to exploit defensive gaps with speed and precision will be crucial against PEC Zwolle. Alongside him, Kasper Dolberg’s experience and aerial prowess add another dimension to Ajax’s attacking options.

In midfield, Kian Fitz-Jim and Youri Regeer are expected to control the tempo and provide the creativity needed for Ajax to break down defensive setups. Fitz-Jim’s vision and passing range could be key to unlocking Zwolle’s defence, while Regeer’s energy and tactical awareness help with both defensive duties and transitions.

Expected lineup for Ajax

• Goalkeeper: Maarten Paes
• Defence: Lucas Rosa, Youri Baas, Josip Šutalo, Owen Wijndal
• Midfield: Kian Fitz-Jim, Youri Regeer, Sean Steur
• Forward: Rayane Bounida, Kasper Dolberg, Mika Godts

Ajax Tactics and Formation

Ajax Tactical Breakdown:

• Expected Formation: 4-3-3
• Key Forward: Kasper Dolberg
• Midfield Engine: Kian Fitz-Jim
• Defensive Record: Struggled with clean sheets, none in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: High pressing and quick ball circulation.

Ajax are likely to deploy a 4-3-3 formation, staying true to their traditional attacking style. Kasper Dolberg will lead the line, supported by wingers Rayane Bounida and Mika Godts. The absence of key players such as Youri Regeer and Davy Klaassen will test their midfield depth.

Defensively, Ajax have struggled, failing to keep a clean sheet in their last five matches. The backline, featuring Lucas Rosa and Josip Šutalo, will need to tighten up, particularly against counter-attacks, which have been a vulnerability.

Offensively, Ajax thrive on high pressing and quick ball circulation. This approach aims to disrupt opponents’ play and create scoring opportunities, especially when the midfield, led by Kian Fitz-Jim, links up effectively with the forwards.

PEC Zwolle vs Ajax H2H Record

Ajax have dominated the head-to-head record against PEC Zwolle, winning 24 of the 31 encounters, while Zwolle have managed just 3 wins, with 4 matches ending in draws. The last Eredivisie meeting saw Ajax claim a 3-1 victory at home in September 2025.

In Eredivisie clashes, Ajax have consistently outperformed Zwolle. The last time these teams met at the MAC3PARK Stadion, Ajax secured a narrow 1-0 win in March 2025. Zwolle’s home advantage has rarely been a decisive factor, with Ajax frequently coming out on top.

Home Team	Away Team	Score	Competition	Date
Ajax	PEC Zwolle	3 – 1	Eredivisie	2025-09-13
PEC Zwolle	Ajax	0 – 1	Eredivisie	2025-03-09
Ajax	PEC Zwolle	2 – 0	Eredivisie	2024-11-24
Ajax	PEC Zwolle	0 – 1	Friendly Matches	2024-07-05
PEC Zwolle	Ajax	1 – 3	Eredivisie	2024-03-31