Ajax vs Besiktas Istanbul Prediction & Betting Tips - Europa League

Prediction published on 24/09/2024, 14:00  by Devesh Jaganath | Modified on 24/09/2024 at 14:04 in Europa League Predictions

The Johan Cruyff Arena will be roaring with anticipation and excitement this Thursday evening when Ajax play host to Besiktas in the opening round of the Europa League. De Godenzonen earned their place in this competition by finishing fifth in Eredivisie last season and winning all six of their qualification games. The Black Eagles, on the other hand, came second in the Super Lig and overcame Lugano to book their spot in the tournament proper. Let's get into the match prediction. 

While de Amsterdammers went into last week against Go Ahead Eagles as massive favourites, they put on a fairly lacklustre performance and needed to call upon Davy Klaassen from the bench to secure them a point.

That draw ended a three-match winning streak, including victories over Jagiellonia Bialystok home and away and Fortuna Sittard, a period during which they scored an impressive 12 goals. 

At home, Ajax have played five times across all competitions this season and have posted four wins, with the only exception being a 1-0 loss to Panathinaikos in qualifying last month. 

Besiktas also needed a moment of brilliance last weekend when a 93rd-minute winner was what it took to seal all three points for the Turkish giants against Eyupspor.

That win managed to keep their unbeaten domestic record intact for this season, with four wins and just one draw out of their five matches to date. 

The Black Eagles have not held back when on the road either, recording an impressive 11 goals over their last four matches away from home, which earned them two wins and two draws across all competitions.