Betway Predictions

Ajax vs. Heracles: Eredivisie Match Preview, Prediction & Betting Tips

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The Johan Cruijff Arena will set the stage for an exciting Eredivisie clash on February 16, 2025, as Ajax Amsterdam welcomes Heracles Almelo. With both teams eyeing crucial points, this matchup promises to deliver high-intensity football. Let’s dive into the key stats, form guide, probable lineups, and betting insights for this encounter.

Head-to-Head Record

Ajax has traditionally dominated this fixture, winning 28 of the last 39 meetings between these teams. Heracles has managed just three victories, while eight games ended in a draw. Their most recent showdown in October 2024 saw Ajax edge out Heracles 4-3 in a thrilling contest.

Current Form

Ajax

  • Position: 1st (51 points from 22 matches)
  • Recent Form: 4W-0D-2L (Last six matches)
  • Goals Scored: 8 | Goals Conceded: 6
  • Home Record: 5W-0D-1L (Last six home games)

Ajax is locked in a tight title race with PSV Eindhoven and will be eager to maintain their stronghold at the top of the table. Their home form has been impressive, and they will look to capitalize on Heracles’ defensive frailties.

Heracles

  • Position: 14th (24 points from 22 matches)
  • Recent Form: 2W-4D-0L (Last six matches)
  • Goals Scored: 8 | Goals Conceded: 6
  • Away Record: 2W-0D-4L (Last six away games)

Despite being unbeaten in their last six outings, Heracles has struggled to secure wins, relying on draws. Their away form remains a concern, having lost four of their previous six matches on the road.

Team News & Injury Updates

Ajax

The hosts will be without:

  • Mika Godts (hamstring)
  • Amourricho van Axel Dongen (ankle injury)
  • Owen Wijndal (knee injury, expected return: late February 2025)
  • Youri Regeer (ankle injury, expected return: April 2025)

Heracles

The visitors also have key players sidelined:

  • Jizz Hornkamp (unknown injury)
  • Sava Cestic (broken ankle)
  • Marko Engels (knee injury)
  • Nikolai Laursen (ACL knee injury)

Predicted Lineups

Ajax (4-3-3)

  • Goalkeeper: Pasveer
  • Defense: Rensch, Timber, Bassey, Hato
  • Midfield: Taylor, Berghuis, Klaassen
  • Attack: Tadic, Brobbey, Bergwijn

Heracles (4-3-3)

  • Goalkeeper: Bucker
  • Defense: Fadiga, Rente, Sonnenberg, Hardeveld
  • Midfield: Schoofs, Vloet, Sierra
  • Attack: Basacikoglu, Sierhuis, Burgzorg

Match Prediction

Given Ajax’s superior squad depth and home advantage, they are strong favorites to take all three points. However, Heracles’ recent resilience could see them put up a fight. Expect Ajax to dominate possession and create numerous scoring opportunities, while Heracles might find joy on the counterattack.

Predicted Score: Ajax 3-1 Heracles

Betting Tips

  • Over 2.5 Goals – Both teams have been involved in high-scoring games recently, making this a solid bet.
  • Both Teams to Score (BTTS: Yes) – Heracles has found the net in most of their recent matches, while Ajax’s defense has shown some vulnerabilities.
  • Ajax to Win the First Half – The hosts often start strong at home, making this a valuable market to consider.

Final Thoughts

Ajax is expected to continue their title push with a convincing win over Heracles. While the visitors have been hard to beat recently, their poor away form makes an upset unlikely. Expect an entertaining game with plenty of attacking action.

Stay tuned for more Eredivisie updates and expert betting tips!