Ajax v Barcelona: Champions League match preview
A look ahead to this week’s Champions League match in Amsterdam
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Barcelona will be looking to extend their 20 match unbeaten record this Tuesday as they face off against Ajax in Amsterdam. The Spanish side will be without key players however, as striker Lionel Messi and goalkeeper Victor Valdes have been ruled out of the remainder of the group stages.
Follow the latest news from tonight's Champions League games by CLICKING HERE
Having already qualified for the last 16 of the competition, Barcelona, who beat Ajax 4-0 at the Nou Camp back in September, require only a draw to secure first place in group. Having not lost a match since manager Gerardo Martino took over the side in July, Barcelona will have to show their strengths without star striker Messi who has scored 6 of the teams 9 goals in Europe this season.
Ajax, who currently reside in third position, will be out of the competition if they lose to Barcelona and Milan beat Celtic, yet if all results go their way, could replace the Italian side as the second place team in the group.
KICK-OFF: Tuesday, 7.45pm
PAST MEETINGS:
Barcelona 4 (Messi (3), Piqué ) Ajax 0, Champions League, Group Stage, September 2013
STATS:
Barcelona have lost just one of their 13 European games against Dutch sides (W6 D6).
Ajax have lost their last eight Champions League games against Spanish sides.
Lionel Messi, who is currently injured, has scored six of Barcelona's nine goals so far in this season's Champions League.
Barcelona have won just one of their last five Champions League away games (D2 L2).
ODDS:
Ajax to win: 5.1
Barcelona to win: 1.57
Draw: 4.0
TV: Live on Sky Sports Red Button at 7.45pm, highlights on Sky Sports 2 at 10PM and ITV at 10.35PM.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments