Groningen vs Ajax - Eredivisie

Groningen prepare to host Ajax at Euroborg on October 18, 2026, with both sides eager to assert their credentials and claim a result that could define their Eredivisie season. Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player Ahead of the first leg of the UEFA Conference League play-off tie against Czech side Jablonec at Ibrox on Thursday, McInnes said: "I said that when I spoke to Lawrence.

Groningen head into the contest positioned 6th in the Eredivisie standings, while Ajax arrive sitting 5th. Groningen have been picking up results at a respectable clip, WWDDL over their last five with a season win rate of 50%. Ajax are brimming with belief on the road, their LDDWW run reflecting a season win rate of 64.71%. Where Groningen have leaned on defensive discipline, Ajax have often taken the initiative going forward, and that stylistic difference should shape the contest. Man United are still trying to kickstart their season and a Champions League trip to Atletico Madrid doesn't look particularly appealing to a side that are struggling for form.

The touchline duel between the two managers adds another layer of intrigue, with both likely to tweak their setups in search of a decisive edge. Schalke had only 17 per cent of the possession but, having visited the club to interview their charismatic coach Miron Muslic, that is hardly a surprise.

Individual quality could tip the balance. The league's leading scorer S. Tengstedt, with 6 goals to his name this season, is a reminder of the firepower on display. Set-piece specialists and aerial threats on both sides mean dead-ball situations could carry outsized importance. That was more than any midfielder or attacker in the Barcelona squad.

Bookmakers have framed the contest with Groningen as favourites (3.6800), the draw at 4.1000, and Ajax as the outsiders (1.7900). The market has edged towards Ajax, with the visitors marginal favourites despite being on the road. The balance of the numbers heavily favours Ajax, and a decisive 2-2 away win looks the most probable result. Whatever the outcome, the Eredivisie fixture promises a meaningful contest with real implications for both clubs. Man United sent verdict on Luke Shaw's actions and Rodrigo Bentancur red in Tottenham draw.