On Wednesday, Ajax will play host to Bayern Munich at the Johan Cruijff Arena. Both teams are unbeaten in this group stage and already have the ticket for the round of 16 in their pocket.
With Ajax needing a win and a defeat not to have any negative impact apart from the loss of form to an extent, Erik ten Hag is likely to go with an attacking 4-3-3 formation against Bayern Munich on Wednesday. Andre Onana and Donny van de Beek join Joel Veltman and Hakim Ziyech on the list of casualties. The back four comprises of the perfect mix of youth and experience, especially in central defence, with the pairing of Matthijs de Ligt and Daley Blind commanding the available positions. Nicolas Tagliafico will be stationed on the left, with Noussair Mazraoui on the right. Andre Onana’s injury means a Champions League debut for Kostas Lamprou.
Bayern Munich has had a calmer Champions League group stage compared to their troubles in Bundesliga this season so far. James Rodrigues and Corentin Tolisso remain on the sidelines while Arjen Robben is doubtful and unlikely to be risked on Wednesday. Kingsley Coman is also a doubt, but did feature as a substitute during the weekend and should continue to be on the bench, building up his fitness. Joshua Kimmich should return to the back four after being deployed in midfield, thanks to the availability of Thiago Alcantara and other midfield stars. Mats Hummels could also come into the back four to replace Niklas Sule, who deserves a rest, with Jerome Boateng partnering his compatriot in central defence.
Probable Line-ups:
Bayern Munich: Neuer (GK); Kimmich, Hummels, Boateng, Rafinha; Martinez, Thiago; Gnabry, Sanches, Ribery; Lewandowski.
Ajax: Lamprou (GP); Mazraoui, de Ligt, Blind, Tagliafico; Schone, Eiting, De Jong; Neres, Dolberg, Tadic.
My PlayerzPot XI:
PlayerzPot Prediction:
It is expected to be an entertaining fixture on Wednesday, with both sides already qualified. But, Ajax are likely to get a draw against Bayern Munich.
Predicted Score: Ajax 2-2 Bayern Munich.
