Ajax vs Galatasaray

Energy is building in Amsterdam as Ajax get ready to face Galatasaray at the Johan Cruijff ArenA on Wednesday, November 5, 2025. The Champions League group stage tie kicks off at 21:00 local time, with both sides entering the match at a critical point in their European campaigns. Ajax are desperate to turn around a difficult start in the group, while Galatasaray travel full of confidence after a strong run of form in both domestic and continental competition. The ArenA is expected to be packed, with fans anticipating a tense, high-stakes contest under the lights.

Ajax head into this match with several key absences that could influence their setup. Midfielder Kenneth Taylor will miss the game due to suspension following a red card in their previous European fixture. Steven Berghuis and Branco van den Boomen are also sidelined with minor injuries, and Kasper Dolberg remains a doubt. Youngster Silvano Vos may feature on the bench to bolster midfield depth. Galatasaray also face a few challenges of their own — İlkay Gündoğan is out after a recent training injury, and winger Yunus Akgün faces a late fitness test for a groin issue. However, defender Wilfried Singo has returned to training and is available for selection, giving coach Okan Buruk some flexibility in defense.

From a tactical standpoint, Ajax manager John Heitinga has been focusing on rebuilding structure and defensive cohesion. Ajax are expected to line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with emphasis on short passing, pressing in phases, and using wide players to stretch Galatasaray’s back line. Heitinga has reportedly spent extra time working on transitions to prevent being exposed on the counter — an area where Galatasaray excel. The Turkish champions, meanwhile, are likely to continue with their compact 4-1-4-1 system, looking to stay organized out of possession and strike through quick transitions led by Mauro Icardi and Hakim Ziyech. Buruk’s side has earned a reputation for tactical balance — patient buildup when needed, yet ruthless when spaces appear.

Ahead of kickoff, Dutch media have framed the match as a “must-win” for Ajax, criticizing the team’s recent inconsistency in Europe and their lack of defensive composure in key moments. In Turkey, headlines are much more optimistic, portraying Galatasaray as a side capable of securing a rare away win in the Netherlands. Commentators have pointed out that the pressure is squarely on Ajax, especially given their home advantage, while Galatasaray have been praised for their resilience and discipline under Buruk. Both press camps agree that this game could shape the group’s outcome and set the tone for the final two rounds.

In the build-up studios, analysts have highlighted contrasting styles as the defining feature of this clash. Many expect Ajax to dominate possession but struggle to break down Galatasaray’s organized block, while others believe the visitors’ direct play could unsettle the Dutch defense early on. Several analysts predict a cautious start with few clear chances in the first half, followed by a more open second period if either team pushes for a result. The consensus is that this fixture won’t hinge on volume of possession, but on precision — whoever makes the most of their chances in front of goal will likely walk away with a vital three points.

Watch and Download Ajax vs Galatasaray full match replay and highlights, At Wednesday, November 05, 2025. The match played at Johan Cruijff ArenA, in Champions League, UEFA.

Benfica vs Bayer Leverkusen