Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Champions League match.
Chelsea approach this game without several key attacking players — Cole Palmer, Liam Delap, and the suspended Pedro Ledesma — leaving Enzo Maresca with limited options up front. Chelsea are still expected to deliver at Stamford Bridge against an inconsistent Ajax side, though the Dutch club also face selection issues in attack.
Chelsea
After a disappointing 1:3 defeat to Bayern Munich, where Chelsea’s tactical setup was completely undone by the hosts, the Londoners bounced back with a narrow 1:0 victory over Benfica. That match, however, was hardly convincing — Chelsea produced just 0.93 xG and registered only eight shots, with the winner coming via an own goal. Their weekend performance against Nottingham Forest (3:0) was much brighter, driven by swift counter-attacks, but the absence of Pedro Ledesma significantly reduces their threat in transitions.
Ajax
Ajax, meanwhile, travel to London without Steven Berghuis and Kasper Dolberg — both initially pencilled in as key starters this season. The team were outclassed away to Marseille (0:4), managing only 0.80 xG, and their post-international-break defeat to AZ Alkmaar (0:2) piled on further pressure. Another loss here could spell the end for the current coaching staff, making this a must-not-lose fixture.
Chelsea vs Ajax Prediction
With both sides struggling for rhythm and short of attacking options, caution is likely to take precedence. Chelsea’s defensive discipline under Maresca and Ajax’s pragmatic approach in away games suggest a tight contest with few clear chances.
