Ajax vs Ludogorets Prediction (31.08.2023)

We are in the Europa League on Thursday night, with the final qualifying games taking place. While some ties are evenly balanced, this one, between Ajax and Ludogorets, looks as though it's almost over already, with the Dutch side coming here holding a sizeable lead, and aiming to wrap things up without and scares or injuries for the team.

Ajax often find themselves in the Champions League, rather than the Europa League, and not only that, but they are here having to qualify for the Europa League as well. But to be honest, they looked like a Champions League side when they played the first leg away against Ludogorets, and that impressive display turned into a 4-1 success for them.

Holding onto a three goal cushion, this game really should be a formality for the Dutch side, who may even rest a few players, feeling that the job is done. While there is risk attached to that, it's probably going to take close to a miracle for this game to be turned on its head.

When the draw was made, Ludogorets instantly knew they had been given pretty much the toughest task of any team in this competition, going up against an opponent such as Ajax. It was always going to be hard, but the way they folded at home was disappointing to see, I expected more fight from them, and I am sure their fans will have done too.

But that's over with, and now this away game is all that remains in the tie. I don't think they will come here with realistic claims to qualify, but will certainly want to show themselves in a better light, rather than just folding and allowing Ajax to run all over them again.

Ajax dominated the first leg of this tie, and even though I think they will rest a few players, I think they will also dominate the second leg of the tie too. I am going with a home win here, and Ajax reaching the Europa League group stage in style.