One of the marquee fixtures of Matchday 3 in the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League group stage will take place on Wednesday at Stamford Bridge, where Chelsea host Ajax Amsterdam in what promises to be an intriguing encounter.
Match Preview
After a rocky start to their campaign in Germany, Chelsea bounced back with a vital home win against Benfica. The Blues continue to emphasize a pragmatic approach, balancing a solid defensive structure with a measured attack. Over their last four European matches, Chelsea have scored no more than one goal per game but have consistently managed to protect their leads.
At Stamford Bridge, Chelsea have been dependable, winning four of their last six Champions League home fixtures. Interestingly, in 11 of their last 14 home games, at least one team has failed to score, underscoring their defensive discipline.
Ajax, meanwhile, have struggled early in the competition, suffering two defeats and remaining the only team yet to score in the group stage. Having conceded six goals already, the Dutch side’s defense appears fragile, especially against top-level opposition.
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Still, Ajax have shown resilience on the road. Prior to a recent loss to Marseille, they had avoided heavy defeats in 25 straight Champions League away matches. Despite their current troubles, it’s too soon to write off the Amsterdam club.
Probable Lineups
Chelsea: Sánchez, Gusto, Chalobah, Hato, Cucurella, James, Caicedo, Neto, Buonanotte, Garnacho, George
Ajax: Jaros, Guehi, Itakura, Bas, Rosa, Klaassen, Taylor, Glukh, Edvardsen, Godts, Weghorst
Key Stats & Head-to-Head
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Chelsea are unbeaten in 5 of their last 6 Champions League home matches.
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Ajax have lost 6 of their last 7 Champions League games.
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Both teams have scored in 7 of Ajax’s last 8 away Champions League matches.
Prediction & Betting Tip
Despite Ajax’s defensive struggles, they rarely suffer heavy defeats on the road. Chelsea, meanwhile, have lacked attacking firepower recently to confidently secure a dominant win. A solid betting option is Ajax with a +2.0 handicap, available at odds of 1.75.
