Sparta Rotterdam — Ajax : Match Preview and Prediction for October 04,2025

Sparta’s Inconsistent Start to the Season

Sparta has experienced a mixed start to the new season, recording four defeats and three victories in their initial seven rounds. The Rotterdam side’s performances have been quite unpredictable, but the hosts now have an excellent chance to challenge Dutch vice-champions Ajax, especially while their opponents are recovering from a recent heavy defeat in Marseille.

Current Form and Team Motivation

Maurice Steijn’s team suffered a significant 0-3 loss against Heracles in Almelo in the previous matchday, seemingly losing focus after halftime. While the red-blacks are still striving to find their consistent game, their form remains somewhat erratic. However, facing such a high-profile opponent, and with the backing of their home crowd, Sparta will undoubtedly be highly motivated. Their only confirmed absentee for this fixture is the Japanese midfielder Mito, who is out with a long-term injury.

Ajax’s Challenging Week and Performance

Johnny Heitinga’s Ajax has endured a particularly tough week. Initially, the Amsterdam side struggled to overcome Breda at home (2-1) in a hard-fought encounter, despite having a numerical advantage. This was swiftly followed by their second consecutive Champions League defeat, a resounding 0-4 loss to Marseille at the Velodrome. During the latter match, Glukh and his teammates committed numerous defensive errors in their own penalty area, leading to a scoreline that could have been even worse, as the French team’s high pressing proved relentlessly effective against them.

Concerns Over Ajax’s Strength and Absentees

Under Heitinga’s management, Ajax appears considerably less robust and less aesthetically pleasing than they did last season under Farioli, and I harbor significant doubts about the current coach’s tactical prowess. For their upcoming match in Rotterdam, Ajax will be missing key players Dolberg, McConnell, Van den Boomen, and Weghorst. Additionally, Youri Regeer’s availability remains uncertain, further weakening their squad.