AZ Alkmaar vs Ajax Prediction & Match Preview (8 February)

AZ Alkmaar vs Ajax Prediction & Match Preview for 8 February. As Eredivisie action intensifies, all eyes turn to the AFAS Stadion this Sunday, 8 February, where AZ Alkmaar will host Ajax. This fixture is set to be a pivotal clash in the Dutch league, with both teams battling for crucial points. AZ Alkmaar, playing on home soil, will be eager to use their familiarity with the AFAS Stadion to challenge the traditionally strong Ajax side.

Ajax, renowned for their attacking flair and illustrious Eredivisie history, will look to assert their dominance against AZ Alkmaar. The match promises to be a tactical contest, with both teams aiming to strengthen their league positions. As the season progresses, every point becomes increasingly vital, making this encounter a key fixture for both clubs. Fans and punters alike will be watching closely to see which side can gain the upper hand in this competitive matchup.

AZ Alkmaar vs Ajax: Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
AZ Alkmaar to Win	2.19

Given recent performances and current form, our recommended betting tip is a home win for AZ Alkmaar. The hosts have demonstrated impressive strength, especially following their emphatic 6-0 victory over Ajax in the KNVB Beker, and are well-placed to capitalise on Ajax’s injury problems and lack of form.

• AZ Alkmaar have scored in 100% of their home matches this season, demonstrating consistent attacking strength.
• Ajax are missing key players, including Branco van den Boomen, Kasper Dolberg, and Owen Wijndal, which significantly weakens their squad depth and attacking options.
• AZ’s familiarity with home conditions and their psychological edge from recent victories over Ajax make them strong favourites.

Betting Odds

In this Eredivisie clash, AZ Alkmaar are considered slight favourites at odds of 2.19, while Ajax are priced at 2.94, indicating a closely matched contest. The draw is also an appealing option at 3.64, reflecting the competitive nature of these fixtures.

Betting Tip	Odds
AZ Alkmaar to win	2.19
Draw	3.64
Ajax to win	2.94

For those considering alternative markets, both teams have demonstrated attacking quality, making the over 2.5 goals market an attractive proposition. Given Ajax’s recent form, there may be value in backing them despite their underdog status.

AZ Alkmaar: Analysis & Recent Performance

AZ Alkmaar have experienced mixed results in recent weeks, with two wins, two defeats, and a draw in their last five matches. Their recent performances include a notable 2-1 victory over Twente in the KNVB Cup, underlining their ability to perform under pressure in knockout competitions.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
AZ Alkmaar	Twente	1 – 1 (Extra time: 1 – 0) (Win)	KNVB Cup	3 Feb 2026
AZ Alkmaar	NEC Nijmegen	1 – 3 (Loss)	Eredivisie	31 Jan 2026
Telstar	AZ Alkmaar	0 – 1 (Win)	Eredivisie	25 Jan 2026
AZ Alkmaar	Excelsior	1 – 1 (Draw)	Eredivisie	21 Jan 2026
PEC Zwolle	AZ Alkmaar	3 – 1 (Loss)	Eredivisie	17 Jan 2026

Recent Form:
AZ Alkmaar’s attack has been moderately effective, averaging 1.20 goals per game over their last five fixtures. Defensively, they have conceded an average of 1.60 goals per match, struggling to maintain a solid back line. They have managed just one clean sheet in these games, highlighting a need for defensive improvement.

Home Performance:
At home, AZ Alkmaar have been relatively strong, winning three of their last five home matches—a 60% win ratio. Their ability to defend home turf has been crucial, although consistency remains a challenge. The team will need to build on this home advantage as they look ahead to their upcoming fixtures.

Strengths and Weaknesses:

• WLWDL

A key strength for AZ Alkmaar is their ability to score in most games, having found the net in nine of their last ten matches. However, conceding goals has been a consistent issue, with the team allowing goals in four of their last five games. AZ Alkmaar will need to tighten up defensively while maintaining their attacking threat to climb higher in the Eredivisie standings, where they currently sit sixth with 32 points.

AZ Alkmaar: Suspensions & Injuries

AZ Alkmaar face a testing period with several key players sidelined due to injury. Jordy Clasie, a vital presence in midfield, is doubtful with fatigue, which could disrupt the team’s balance and passing rhythm. Mexx Meerdink is also doubtful with a groin issue, possibly forcing AZ Alkmaar to adjust their attacking approach. Denso Kasius, Sven Mijnans, and Kees Smit are all expected to return in mid-February, meaning their absence will test the squad’s depth, particularly in defence and midfield.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Jordy Clasie	Fatigue	Uncertain
Mexx Meerdink	Groin injury	Uncertain
Denso Kasius	Ankle injury	Mid February 2026
Sven Mijnans	Hamstring injury	Mid February 2026
Kees Smit	Unknown	Mid February 2026

In response to these absences, AZ Alkmaar may need to rely on players such as Kasper Boogaard and Peer Koopmeiners to fill the midfield gaps. The tactical setup may shift towards a more conservative approach to protect the defence, especially with key defenders like Denso Kasius unavailable. The inclusion of young talents like Ibrahim Sadiq and Isak Steiner Jensen could inject fresh energy and creativity, though they will need to step up significantly to match the contributions of the injured players.

These unavailabilities could impact betting markets, potentially making AZ Alkmaar less favoured against an Ajax side that could exploit these weaknesses. Bettors should consider the effect of these injuries on AZ Alkmaar’s overall performance as they face a formidable opponent.

AZ Alkmaar: Key Players

AZ Alkmaar’s attacking threat is led by their top scorer, Troy Parrott, who has already netted 11 goals this season. Parrott’s clinical finishing and movement in the box make him a constant danger for opposing defences. His partnership with fellow forwards Isak Jensen and Ro-Zangelo Daal adds dynamism and pace, capable of unsettling Ajax’s back line.

In midfield, Peer Koopmeiners is a pivotal figure, orchestrating play with his vision and passing accuracy. His ability to dictate the game’s tempo will be crucial against Ajax’s pressing style. At the back, the young duo of Wouter Goes and Maxim Dekker are tasked with providing solidity and resilience—key to keeping Ajax’s potent attack at bay.

Expected lineup for AZ Alkmaar:

• Goalkeeper: Jeroen Zoet
• Defence: Alexandre Penetra, Wouter Goes, Maxim Dekker, Mees de Wit
• Midfield: Kasper Boogaard, Matej Sin, Peer Koopmeiners
• Forward: Isak Jensen, Troy Parrott, Ro-Zangelo Daal

AZ Alkmaar: Tactics & Formation

AZ Alkmaar Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: Likely 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Troy Parrott
• Midfield Core: Kasper Boogaard and Peer Koopmeiners
• Defensive Record: One clean sheet in the last five matches
• Notable Strategy: Emphasis on quick transitions and exploiting wide areas.

AZ Alkmaar are expected to line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, offering a balanced approach between defence and attack. With Kasper Boogaard and Peer Koopmeiners anchoring midfield, the team can maintain defensive stability while supporting forward play. This setup allows Ibrahim Sadiq and Matej Sin to exploit the flanks, supporting lone striker Troy Parrott, who is central to their attacking strategy.

Defensively, the backline—featuring Seiya Maikuma and Mees de Wit as full-backs—aims to provide width and support in transitions. Despite conceding in recent matches, the defensive structure remains vital, especially against a high-calibre opponent like Ajax.

Offensively, AZ Alkmaar focus on quick transitions and using the pace of their wingers to stretch the opposition. Troy Parrott’s ability to hold up play and link with midfielders will be essential, especially in counter-attacking situations where AZ can exploit space left by the opposition.

Ajax: Analysis & Recent Performance

Ajax have experienced a mixed run of results recently, recording two wins, two draws, and one defeat in their last five matches across all competitions. In their most recent Eredivisie outing, they drew 2-2 with Excelsior, highlighting both their attacking strengths and defensive vulnerabilities.

Home Team	Away Team	Score	Competition	Date
Excelsior	Ajax	2 – 2 (Draw)	Eredivisie	1 Feb 2026
Ajax	Olympiacos	1 – 2 (Loss)	Champions League	28 Jan 2026
Ajax	FC Volendam	2 – 0 (Win)	Eredivisie	24 Jan 2026
Villarreal	Ajax	1 – 2 (Win)	Champions League	20 Jan 2026
Ajax	Go Ahead Eagles	2 – 2 (Draw)	Eredivisie	17 Jan 2026

Recent Form:
Ajax’s attacking prowess is clear, with an average of 2.20 goals scored per game in their last five matches. However, they have also conceded an average of 1.60 goals per game, resulting in just one clean sheet during this period. Defensive frailties remain a concern, as Ajax have allowed goals in four of their last five games.

Their away form has been relatively strong, with a 40% win ratio in their last five away matches. Despite this, Ajax have struggled to maintain defensive solidity on the road, conceding in 80% of these games. The team currently sit fourth in the Eredivisie with 38 points, underlining the need to tighten up at the back to maintain their league position.

Mika Godts has been a standout performer, scoring 10 goals this season, and his contributions will be crucial if Ajax are to make the most of their attacking strengths. Overall, while Ajax remain a formidable attacking force, their inconsistent defence could be exploited by opponents.

• DLWWD

Ajax: Suspensions & Injuries

Ajax are contending with several injuries ahead of this fixture. Ko Itakura’s back injury is a significant setback for their defensive setup, especially as he is not expected back until mid-February. This absence leaves a gap in the backline that may require tactical adjustments from coach Fred Grim. Meanwhile, illnesses affecting Kian Fitz-Jim, Owen Wijndal, and Oscar Gloukh further deplete the squad, particularly in midfield where creativity and stability are vital.

The absence of Ko Itakura and the uncertainty over the return of Kian Fitz-Jim and others may force Ajax to rely on younger, less experienced players. This could see Fred Grim turning to the likes of Youri Baas and Youri Regeer to step up in crucial roles. While these players have shown promise, the tactical impact could be a more cautious approach, prioritising defensive solidity.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Ko Itakura	Back injury	Mid February 2026
Kian Fitz-Jim	Illness	Unknown
Owen Wijndal	Illness	Unknown
Oscar Gloukh	Illness	Unknown

With these injuries, Ajax’s squad depth is tested, which could influence betting markets as they face AZ Alkmaar. The reliance on inexperienced replacements may shift the odds slightly in favour of the home team, especially if Ajax’s usual fluidity is disrupted. Bettors should consider the impact of these absences when assessing Ajax’s prospects in this matchup.

Ajax: Key Players

Leading the line for Ajax is their top scorer, Mika Godts, who has already found the net 10 times this season. His agility and precision in front of goal make him a constant threat to any defence. Godts’ ability to exploit space and his sharp finishing are pivotal to Ajax’s attacking strategy. Alongside him, Kasper Dolberg provides a significant aerial threat and physical presence, making the duo a formidable pair for opponents.

In midfield, Davy Klaassen’s experience and vision are indispensable. His knack for dictating play and breaking down opposition defences with incisive passing provides a creative spark. Sean Steur complements Klaassen with his energetic box-to-box play, ensuring Ajax maintain a strong presence in midfield. At the back, Josip Sutalo’s leadership and tackling ability are crucial in organising the defence and ensuring solidity.

Expected lineup for Ajax

• Goalkeeper: Vitezslav Jaros
• Defence: Anton Gaaei, Josip Sutalo, Youri Baas, Jorthy Mokio
• Midfield: Davy Klaassen, Youri Regeer, Sean Steur
• Forward: Rayane Bounida, Kasper Dolberg, Mika Godts

Ajax: Tactics & Formation

Ajax Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: Flexible, likely 4-3-3
• Key Forward: Kasper Dolberg
• Midfield Pivot: Davy Klaassen and Youri Regeer
• Defensive Strength: Struggled with clean sheets, conceding in four of the last five games
• Notable Strategy: High possession play with emphasis on quick passing and movement.

Ajax’s use of a flexible 4-3-3 formation allows them to dominate possession, as seen with a 52% possession rate against Excelsior. Davy Klaassen and Youri Regeer are pivotal in midfield, offering both defensive cover and attacking support. Their ball retention and distribution help Ajax control the tempo of the game.

In attack, Kasper Dolberg is a key figure, supported by Rayane Bounida and Mika Godts on the wings. Dolberg’s ability to hold up play and link with midfielders is crucial for Ajax’s offensive transitions. However, the absence of key players like Ko Itakura due to injury might necessitate adjustments, particularly in defensive transitions.

Defensively, Ajax have faced challenges, conceding in four of their last five matches. The backline, featuring Josip Sutalo and Youri Baas, needs to improve to increase their clean sheet tally. Their tactical approach relies heavily on pressing opponents high up the pitch to regain possession quickly.

AZ Alkmaar vs Ajax: Head-to-Head Record

In their last 50 head-to-head encounters, Ajax hold the advantage with 23 wins compared to AZ Alkmaar’s 18, while 11 matches have ended in a draw. The most recent meeting saw AZ Alkmaar thrash Ajax 6-0 in the KNVB Cup, underlining their potential to dominate.

The last Eredivisie clash between the two was in October 2025, when AZ Alkmaar secured an impressive 2-0 victory away at Ajax. This result highlights AZ’s growing confidence against their rivals in league play.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
AZ Alkmaar	Ajax	6 – 0	KNVB Cup	2026-01-14
Ajax	AZ Alkmaar	0 – 2	Eredivisie	2025-10-18
Ajax	AZ Alkmaar	2 – 2	Eredivisie	2025-03-16
AZ Alkmaar	Ajax	2 – 0	KNVB Cup	2025-01-14
AZ Alkmaar	Ajax	2 – 1	Eredivisie	2024-12-08

When AZ Alkmaar hosted Ajax in the Eredivisie back in December 2024, they emerged 2-1 winners. AZ’s recent home performances against Ajax suggest a trend of strong showings, making this upcoming fixture at the AFAS Stadion one to watch.