Ajax made significant adjustments to their starting lineup for the Eredivisie clash against Go Ahead Eagles, as they seek to solidify their lead at the top of the table in the Johan Cruijff Arena on Sunday afternoon.
Initially set to start, goalkeeper Remko Pasveer was declared unfit to play due to illness. The 39-year-old had been instrumental for Ajax this season, providing steady performances, including key saves during their recent Europa League match against Union Sint-Gillis, which helped Ajax move forward in the competition.
With Pasveer unable to take the field, Ajax's Brazilian goalkeeper Matheus made his debut. Signed on loan from SC Braga, Matheus stepped up to fill the void, highlighting Ajax's confidence in their newly acquired talent as they look to maintain their momentum.
The match against Go Ahead Eagles is particularly significant for Ajax, as they currently lead the league with two points over PSV. A victory could extend this lead to five points, giving them the upper hand as the title race intensifies.
Ajax's head coach Francesco Farioli also faced the absence of Croatian defender Josip Sutalo due to injury, prompting another shift. Ahmetcan Kaplan was brought on to start at the back, as the team made strategic adjustments to prepare for the challenge posed by their opponents.
Matheus, who arrived as Pasveer's replacement, is not only expected to perform but also has the option to secure a permanent deal with Ajax should his loan spell prove successful.
The game kicked off at 14:30 hours, promising to be tense as Ajax aims to reinforce its position at the top of the table against the seventh-ranked Go Ahead Eagles.
Ajax’s lineup featured several changes compared to their last fixture. Among those who took to the field were forwards Bertrand Traoré and Brian Brobbey, along with rookie Mika Godts, signaling Farioli's intention to shake things up and maximize their attacking options.
On the opposing side, Go Ahead Eagles made two notable changes from their last victory over Sparta, with Dean James and Evert Linthorst starting the match.
For Ajax, the defensive stability provided by players like Kaplan and Matheus will be pivotal as they face off against Go Ahead Eagles, aiming for not just another win but to keep building on their title aspirations.
This match also marks a return for Norwegian forward Oliver Edvardsen as he faces off against his former club, adding another layer of intrigue to the encounter.
With both teams eager for points, this Eredivisie showdown promises to deliver excitement, especially for Ajax, as they aim to prevail without some key aspects of their squad.