In the away defeat by Groningen 2-1, Ajax largely paid off the halftime performance. After scoring (72 '), they pushed Groningen for the equalizer without scoring another goal. After Alkmaar's win , they again got a roommate at the top. However, itsmost prominent opponent in the title fight is its lousy self and not any other team.

Coach Ten Hag stated: "I am not concerned about the situation in Eindhoven. I look at my team. The fact that we miss some players is affecting our automation. That does not mean, of course, that we cannot play better".

In the last six games, Ajax has a 3-0-3 record. Ziyech is a significant absence, as he has scored six goals, but he also have 12 assists so far. Besides, the experienced defender Blind is also injured.

Furthermore, Ajax has two matters of injury concern. The Brazilian attacker David Neres is out, alongside with the African midfielder Labyad. Fortunately, Onana returns on the goalie, and that is good news for Ajax.

A few hours after being knocked out of the Cup by Brenda (Group B), PSV received a new "slap" drawing at 1-1 against Twente. They were too bad in the first half, but they converted in the second one, and they scored on the 61st minute.

However, Afelai sent off on 75' and that cost a victory to PSV, as Twente scored three minutes before the end. Furious fans, after the game ended, gathered outside the central gate of the arena, urging the removal of the Sports Director, Herbrands.

Faber stated before the big classy derby: "The way Groningen struggled Ajax last week is a guide to how to deal with the game today. We need a big win. It is the only thing that will help us at the moment." 

Bergwijn signed at Tottenham Hotspur, and that is a significant loss for PSV. He had scored 5 goals and served 10 assists in 16 games. The midfielder Pereiro also departed for Cagliari, while they signed Rodriguez from AC Milan.

The two teams have faced each other 59 times. Ajax has 20 wins, while PSV has won 25 times, and 14 matches ended in a draw.

In the 1st round, PSV - Ajax: 1-1. The match took place on 22/09/2019.

Let's take a look at main and special odds markets offered at bet365 website :

• Full Time Result (1X2) : 1.30 – 5.75 – 9.00
• Under/Over 2.5 Goals : 1.40 (Over) – 2.87 (Under)
• Draw No Bet: 1.10 (Ajax) – 7.00 (PSV)
• Both Teams to Score: 1.70(Yes) –  2.05 (No)
• Halftime Result (1X2): 1.80 – 2.75 – 6.50

*bet365 odds as offered at  02/02, 15:00CET (subject to change without prior notice) | 18+, T&Cs Apply, BeGambleAware.org

As long as he playes for Ajax, Van de Beek is a top-class midfielde and his performance affects in a sigificant way Ajax. At the end of the season he will leave.

Donyell Malen has already scored 11 goals in 14 games for PSV and he is the main threat for the Ajax's defense.