Ajax 1-1 NEC Nijmegen: result and AI prediction

AI match recap

Ajax return to the Johan Cruijff Arena with the stronger recent league rhythm and a far more productive attack, but their injury list prevents this from being a routine home fixture. Dolberg's long-term absence puts greater responsibility on Arokodare, Gloukh and Brandt to convert Ajax's territorial control into clear chances. NEC have struggled for defensive stability, yet Chery and Tadic carry enough craft to punish an open transition or a loose second ball. The recent head-to-head pattern points to a contest Ajax should control, but not necessarily one in which NEC are shut out.

Head-to-head analysis

This fixture has been unusually awkward for Ajax recently: the last two league meetings finished level, and NEC also won at the Johan Cruijff Arena in the previous campaign. The broader recent series contains several close, high-event matches rather than consistent Ajax control.

Injuries and absences

Dolberg's knee injury removes Ajax's established centre-forward option and concentrates the finishing burden on Arokodare and the arriving midfielders. NEC's reported goalkeeper and defensive absences are more damaging structurally, although Crettaz's status is disputed by recent team-news reports and must be checked at line-up release.

Form (last 5)

Ajax vs NEC Nijmegen stats

Last meetings

• 2026-02-21Ajax 1-1 NEC Nijmegen
• 2025-12-20NEC Nijmegen 2-2 Ajax
• 2025-05-11Ajax 0-3 NEC Nijmegen
• 2024-12-01NEC Nijmegen 1-2 Ajax
• 2024-02-18Ajax 2-2 NEC Nijmegen
• 2023-12-03NEC Nijmegen 1-2 Ajax

Unavailable players

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