Ajax vs. Union St Gilloise Prediction and Betting Tips

The UEFA Europa League knockout stage is heating up, and one of the most intriguing matchups is between Ajax Amsterdam and Union Saint-Gilloise. This clash promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams vying for a spot in the last 16. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the prediction, betting tips, and odds for this exciting fixture, providing you with all the information you need to make informed decisions.

Match Overview

Date and Venue

The second leg of this Europa League playoff tie is scheduled for Thursday, February 20, 2025, at the Johan Cruijff Arena in Amsterdam. Ajax holds a significant advantage after securing a 2-0 victory in the first leg at the King Baudouin Stadium in Brussels.

Current Form

Ajax comes into this match in scintillating form, having won their last five matches across all competitions. Their recent 4-0 thrashing of Heracles Almelo in the Eredivisie showcased their attacking prowess and defensive solidity39. On the other hand, Union Saint-Gilloise has struggled recently, losing their last two matches without scoring, including a 1-0 defeat to Mechelen in the Belgian Pro League.

Head-to-Head Analysis

This is only the second meeting between these two teams. The first leg saw Ajax dominate, with goals from Brian Brobbey and Bertrand Traoré securing a comfortable win210. Historically, Ajax has a strong record against Belgian teams, winning seven of their eight home matches against them in European competitions.

Key Stats and Insights

Ajax’s Strengths

• Home Dominance: Ajax has won their last six home games, scoring 15 goals and keeping three clean sheets.
• Attacking Firepower: Players like Steven Berghuis and Brian Brobbey have been in fine form, contributing crucial goals and assists.
• Defensive Stability: Ajax has kept three consecutive clean sheets, highlighting their improved defensive organization.

Union Saint-Gilloise’s Challenges

• Away Struggles: Union has lost three of their four away games in the Europa League this season, scoring only two goals.
• Injury Concerns: Key players like Alessio Castro-Montes and Kamiel Van De Perre remain sidelined, weakening their squad.
• Lack of Goals: Union has failed to score in their last two matches, raising concerns about their attacking efficiency.

Prediction

Given Ajax’s current form and home advantage, they are strong favorites to win this match. Union Saint-Gilloise will need to score at least twice to have any chance of progressing, but Ajax’s defensive solidity makes this a daunting task.

Final Score Prediction: Ajax 2-1 Union Saint-Gilloise.

Betting Tips and Odds

Match Result: Ajax to Win

Ajax’s dominance at home and superior squad depth make them the likely winners. The odds for an Ajax victory are around 1.88 on most betting platforms.

Over 2.5 Goals

Both teams have shown a tendency to be involved in high-scoring games. Ajax’s matches have averaged 2.85 goals per game, while Union’s have averaged 2.701315. Betting on over 2.5 goals at odds of 1.91 is a solid option.

Both Teams to Score: Yes

Despite Union’s recent struggles, they have scored in four of their last five matches. Ajax’s attacking style often leaves them vulnerable at the back, making this a viable bet at odds of 1.75.

Bertrand Traoré to Score Anytime

Traoré has been in excellent form, scoring in his last three home Europa League matches. At odds of 2.50, he’s a great pick to find the net.

Team News and Lineups

Ajax

• Injuries: Wout Weghorst (toe), Mika Godts (muscle), and Youri Regeer (ankle) are sidelined.
• Predicted Lineup: Pasveer; Gaaei, Rugani, Sutalo, Baas; Klaassen, Henderson, Taylor; Traoré, Brobbey, Berghuis.

Union Saint-Gilloise

• Injuries: Alessio Castro-Montes, Kamiel Van De Perre, and Sofiane Boufal are unavailable.
• Predicted Lineup: Moris; Burgess, Mac Allister, Leysen; Niang, Vanhoutte, Perre, Sadiki, Khalaili; Ivanovic, Fuseini.

Conclusion

Ajax vs. Union Saint-Gilloise is set to be an exciting clash, with Ajax holding the upper hand due to their strong form and home advantage. Union will need a miraculous performance to turn the tie around, but Ajax’s quality and depth make them the clear favorites.

For bettors, focusing on an Ajax win, over 2.5 goals, and both teams to score are the most promising options. Keep an eye on key players like Bertrand Traoré and Brian Brobbey, who could make the difference in this match.

Stay tuned for more updates and betting insights as the match approaches!

Disclaimer: Betting involves risk. Please gamble responsibly and only bet what you can afford to lose.