Aston Villa vs Ajax Conference League Preview
Aston Villa host Ajax in a UEFA Europa Conference League (UECL) second-leg match, with both teams locked in a stalemate following a goalless draw in Amsterdam.
The encounter promises high stakes as both teams vie for a coveted spot in the quarter-finals.
Villa’s Home Woes
Aston Villa’s recent form at Villa Park raises concerns, with the team suffering four losses in their last five home matches. This slump includes a 4-0 thrashing by Tottenham, marking one of Unai Emery’s most significant defeats.
Despite this, Villa’s European home record offers a glimmer of hope, boasting five wins and just one loss in their last seven continental fixtures at Villa Park, including a perfect record this season.
Ajax’s English Challenge
Ajax, four-time European champions, arrive in Birmingham amidst a challenging period, with just one win in their last nine games across all competitions.
Their record in England further complicates their task ahead, having not won on English soil since their 2018/19 Champions League semi-final first-leg victory over Tottenham.
Since then, all encounters with Premier League teams have ended in defeat, highlighting the uphill battle the Dutch side faces.
Key Players to Watch
Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa)
Despite a recent goal drought in the UECL, Watkins remains Aston Villa’s top scorer and is the likely name to get on the scoresheet for the hosts. His contributions could be pivotal for Villa’s aspirations.
Brian Brobbey (Ajax)
Brobbey’s recent scoring form in domestic competitions contrasts his yet-to-score record in this season’s UECL. His potential breakthrough could provide Ajax with the edge they need to advance.
Historical Precedent
History is not on the side of the visitors, with Ajax having been eliminated from European competitions on all three previous occasions after drawing 0-0 at home in the first leg.
This pattern, including last season’s exit against Union Berlin, highlights the challenge awaiting them at Villa Park.
As Aston Villa and Ajax prepare for their decisive showdown, both teams find themselves at a critical juncture.
Villa’s resolve to break their poor home form faces a stern test against an Ajax team struggling to replicate their historical European success. With both sides eager to book a spot in the quarterfinals, the stage is set for a tough encounter that should be an enjoyable watch for fans.
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Aston Villa-Ajax | UEFA Europa Conference League 2023/24