Liontips
Ajax vs Benfica: prediction for the Champions League match
Ajax welcome Benfica to the Johan Cruijff Arena in the second leg of their Champions League last-16 tie. The two sides are currently tied at 2:2. Who will advance to the next round of the competition? Here's our prediction.
Command Analysis
Ajax
NetherlandsAjax delivered a strong performance in their Champions League group games. The Dutch team won all of their matches and qualified for the playoffs from the top spot, nine points in front of Sporting CP. Ajax's forward Sebastian Haller scored at both ends of the pitch during the first leg of the last-16 match in Lisbon. The final score was tied at 2:2.
Erik ten Hag's side tops the Eredivisie standings with 63 points from 26 games. In the last two matches, De Godenzonen beat Waalwijk (3:2) and Cambuur (3:2). The attack of Ajax has been unstoppable this season - they have scored 77 goals while conceding only 11. Two weeks ago, Ajax defeated AZ Alkmaar (2:0) and advanced to the final of the KNVB Cup. Their final match against PSV will take place on April 17.
Stekelenburg, Klaiber, Gorter, Pasveer, and Mazraoui have been ruled out of this game.
Benfica
PortugalBenfica had a difficult Champions League group this year. They were never the favourites to qualify for the knockouts, but the Eagles took advantage of Barcelona's crisis and secured the second-line finish.
Nélson Veríssimo's men are currently occupying the 3rd line in La Primeira standings with 58 points from 18 victories and four draws, just three points behind Sporting CP in the second position. The Eagles are in great form - since the first leg, they beat Vitoria CS (3:0) and Portimonense (2:1), and drew against Vizela (1:1).
Lucas Veríssimo, Pinho and Seferovic are all sidelined through injuries.
Trends
This bet played in 3 of the last 5 away games of Benfica.
Ajax have scored in the second half in their last 6 games.
Last game between the teams ended in a draw.
In 2 of the last 4 games of the visitors, this bet played.
Tip and bets
Both teams have strong attacking lines and will go all out for the win in the second leg. Hopefully, we'll see a very similar game to the one in Lisbon - both sides will have multiple attacks and scoring opportunities. Ajax and Benfica have both taken advantage of their chances in the last three games, and we expect the same today.
Our prediction — both to score
Ajax have won their last three games, and Benfica have been unbeaten in their last seven. In the first leg, both teams looked strong, making it hard to pick a favourite. There is a slight edge to the hosts, but the Eagles have enough experience to challenge the Dutch champions. This will be a close game.
Second bet — one side to win by 1 goal
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