Ajax vs Aston Villa Prediction & Betting Tips (7 March)

Ajax is going through a difficult season, both in the league and in the European Cup. Placed in a tough group with Brighton, OM and AEK Athens, the Dutch had difficulty qualifying in C3. They had to go through the play-offs to reach the round of 16, where they struggled to win against Bodo/Glimt in the second leg 2-1 after the first leg drew 2-2. In the championship, their chances of obtaining a place on the podium are slim, with a delay of 11 points on third after 24 days. However, qualification for the Europa League or the Conference League remains possible. Despite a successful attack, Ajax encountered defensive difficulties, as evidenced by their four unsuccessful matches in the league, including two draws and two defeats.

On the other hand, they found their way to victory against Utrecht last weekend 2-0Aston Villa are among the big favorites in the C3 this season. The English club has performed very well since the arrival of Unaï Emery at the head of the team. After a successful group stage with four wins, a draw and a defeat, Aston Villa finished at the top of their group, ahead of Legia in particular. In the championship, Moussa Diaby and his teammates also had an excellent season, occupying fourth place after 27 days. Although they have recently suffered defeats against big names such as Chelsea in the FA Cup 1-3 and Manchester United in the Championship 1-2, the Villa Park residents have bounced back with three consecutive victories in the Premier League, against Fulham 1-2, Nottingham at home 4-2 and last weekend at a promoted side, Luton Town 2-3.

Following a red card received during the second leg of the play-off match against Bodo/Glimt, defender Sutalo will be suspended for the Aston Villa match. As for the young defender Avila, injured since the beginning of January, he is also not expected to participate in the match, just like his teammate Godts, who has been injured for a long time already. The team's captain and scorer, Bergwijn (8 goals), is also expected to miss this round of 16 first leg. On the other hand, the new star recruit, Henderson, will be present, as will the scorer Brobbey, the team's top scorer with 18 goals in all competitions. Aston Villa will have to do without one of their key elements this season. French international Boubacar Kamara suffered a serious injury at the start of the year and is not expected to play again until next September.

The defensive midfielder is not the only one on the sidelines, as he is joined by central defender Diego Carlos, a former Ligue 1 player. Duran and Konsa are also expected to miss the trip to Amsterdam. Despite these numerous absences, Aston Villa has several assets, notably the Brazilian midfielder in great shape, Douglas Luiz, McGinn, and the striker Bailey (11 goals). Watkins is also a key player, having scored 19 goals in all competitions this season. French international Moussa Diaby (6 goals) is another player capable of making a difference.