Ajax vs Rangers predictions for this pre-season friendly. Under new management after a poor 2023-24 season, Ajax face Rangers in a pre-season friendly on Saturday. Read on for all our free predictions and betting tips.
Club Friendlies | Jul 13, 2024 at 3pm UK at Johan Cruijff Arena
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Ajax vs Rangers Predictions
Can Ajax Outmanoeuvre Rangers in Their Pre-Season Showdown?
Key Stats
– Ajax average 2.2 goals per game in the Eredivisie.
– Rangers have conceded just 0.8 goals per game in the Scottish Premiership.
– Ajax have an impressive 86.1% pass accuracy rate, highlighting their ball control prowess.
As Ajax prepare to face Rangers in a pre-season friendly, both teams aim to fine-tune their strategies under new management. Ajax, under the leadership of Francesco Farioli, are looking to bounce back from a lacklustre 2023-24 season. Meanwhile, Rangers, guided by Philippe Clement, seek to solidify their squad for the upcoming campaign.
Ajax’s Transition Under Farioli
Ajax’s pre-season has been a mix of results, highlighting the challenges and potential under Farioli’s fresh approach. Their first match ended in a narrow 1-0 defeat against PEC Zwolle, showcasing some of the early teething issues. However, a subsequent 4-0 victory over Sint-Truiden displayed their attacking prowess, with goals from Jorrel Hato, Jaydon Banel, Carlos Forbs, and Kenneth Taylor.
Farioli’s task is immense, tasked with revitalising a side that struggled last season. His emphasis on a strong defensive structure coupled with quick, incisive attacks will be crucial. The inclusion of experienced players like Jordan Henderson in the midfield is expected to bring stability and leadership, essential elements for their rebuilding phase.
Rangers’ Preparations and Challenges
Rangers’ pre-season journey under Philippe Clement has been carefully crafted to build momentum and integrate new players. Their goalless draw against Standard Liege provided an opportunity to test different combinations, with new signings like Connor Barron and Clinton Nsiala getting valuable minutes.
Clement faces the challenge of integrating fresh faces while maintaining the core strength of the team. The absence of key players like Danilo and Zak Lovelace due to injuries, and the potential departure of Todd Cantwell, adds to the complexity. However, the return of Cyriel Dessers offers a boost to their attacking options.
Expected Line-Ups and Tactical Insights
Ajax: Ramaj; Rensch, Gooijer, Janse, Hato; Taylor, Henderson, Van den Boomen; Forbs, Akpom, Banel
Ajax’s expected lineup indicates a blend of youth and experience. The inclusion of Devyne Rensch and Kenneth Taylor in defence and midfield respectively, suggests a focus on solidifying the central areas. Upfront, the presence of Akpom and Banel adds a dynamic edge to their attack.
Rangers: Butland; Tavernier, Souttar, Balogun, Jefte; Raskin, Diomande; McCausland, Dowell, Matondo; Dessers
Rangers are likely to field a balanced side, with experienced defenders like Tavernier and Souttar providing a solid backline. The midfield duo of Raskin and Diomande will be crucial in dictating the tempo, while Dessers leads the line, aiming to exploit any defensive lapses from Ajax.
Key Areas and Player Duels
The midfield battle will be pivotal in determining the match’s outcome. Jordan Henderson’s experience against the youthful energy of Diomande and Raskin could set the tone for Ajax’s control in the centre of the park. Similarly, the duel between Tavernier and Forbs on the flank promises to be a thrilling contest, with both players known for their offensive and defensive contributions.
Gameplay Dynamics
Ajax are expected to dominate possession, leveraging their strong passing game to control the tempo. Their high pressing style aims to disrupt Rangers’ build-up play, forcing errors and creating scoring opportunities. On the other hand, Rangers will likely adopt a more counter-attacking approach, using their pace on the wings and the clinical finishing of Dessers to threaten Ajax’s defence.
Tactical Strengths and Weaknesses
Ajax: Ajax’s strength lies in their ball control and attacking fluidity. Players like Kenneth Taylor and Branco van den Boomen are adept at breaking down defences with their vision and passing. However, their defensive vulnerabilities, particularly when under pressure, can be exploited by quick, direct attacks.
Rangers: Rangers’ robust defensive setup and efficient counter-attacks are their main strengths. The leadership of Tavernier at the back provides stability, while their ability to transition swiftly from defence to attack is a significant advantage. Nonetheless, their inconsistency in maintaining possession and creating sustained pressure in the opponent’s half could be a concern.
Managerial Critique
Francesco Farioli’s appointment at Ajax comes with high expectations. His previous tenure at Nice showcased his tactical acumen but also highlighted his struggle to adapt quickly to new challenges. His ability to inspire and extract the best from a squad in transition will be under scrutiny.
Philippe Clement, while having a solid start at Rangers, faces criticism for his cautious approach in crucial matches. His reluctance to take risks and adapt tactics mid-game has often been seen as a limitation. Balancing the integration of new players while maintaining tactical coherence will be essential for Clement.
Expected Goals Analysis
Ajax’s average of 2.2 goals per game in the Eredivisie reflects their attacking potential, yet their defensive record of 1.8 goals conceded per game indicates areas needing improvement. Conversely, Rangers’ stronger defensive statistics, with 0.8 goals conceded per game, and an attacking average of 2.3 goals per game in the Scottish Premiership, suggest a well-rounded squad capable of challenging Ajax effectively.
Predictions
Best Bet: Ajax to Win Given Ajax’s advanced stage in pre-season preparations and Rangers still finding their rhythm, an Ajax victory seems plausible. Their superior match fitness and cohesive gameplay under Farioli give them the edge in this encounter.
Correct Score: Ajax 2-1 Rangers While Ajax are expected to dominate, Rangers have the capability to breach their defence, making a 2-1 scoreline a reasonable prediction. Ajax’s attacking prowess should see them netting twice, with Rangers likely to respond once.
Goalscorer Prediction: Cyriel Dessers to Score Dessers, with his proven goal-scoring ability, stands out as a strong candidate to find the net. His positioning and finishing skills will be vital for Rangers, especially on the counter-attack.
Corner Prediction: Rangers to Win More Corners Rangers, with their counter-attacking strategy, are likely to win more corners. Ajax’s defensive setup under pressure might concede several corners, with Rangers exploiting these set-piece opportunities.
Innovative Market: Ajax to Have More Shots on Target Ajax’s offensive approach and control over possession suggest they will have more shots on target. Players like Akpom and Banel are expected to test Rangers’ goalkeeper frequently, reflecting Ajax’s attacking intent.
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