The upcoming Eredivisie clash between Excelsior and Ajax promises to deliver an intriguing contest as both sides meet on January 31 at Stadion Woudestein. The home team will be eager to rediscover their winning touch after a series of mixed results, while the visitors aim to maintain their pursuit of the top positions in the league. With both teams showing contrasting forms and ambitions, this fixture could play a key role in shaping their respective seasons.

Excelsior’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Excelsior enter this match sitting 13th in the Eredivisie standings, having collected 22 points so far. Their recent performances have been inconsistent, with just one win in their last five matches, alongside three draws and one defeat. The most recent result, a goalless draw against FC Twente on January 24, highlighted their defensive resilience but also their ongoing struggles in front of goal. Over the course of the season, Excelsior have recorded six wins, four draws, and ten losses, averaging one goal scored and 1.8 conceded per game.

At home, the Rotterdam-based side have shown flashes of competitiveness, including a surprising result earlier in the season against Ajax. However, their defensive line remains a concern, as they have often allowed opponents too much space in dangerous areas. The team’s inability to maintain consistency has been a recurring issue, and improving their defensive organization will be crucial if they are to stand a chance against one of the league’s most potent attacks.

• Last 5 matches: 1 win, 3 draws, 1 defeat


• Average goals scored: 1.2 per match


• Average goals conceded: 1.8 per match


• Last head-to-head: 1-2 defeat on November 22, 2025

Excelsior’s main objective will be to frustrate Ajax’s attacking rhythm and capitalize on any counterattacking opportunities. Their previous draw against FC Twente showed that they can remain compact and disciplined, but they will need to replicate that level of focus for the full 90 minutes to avoid being overrun by Ajax’s offensive pressure.

Ajax’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Ajax approach this encounter in third place in the Eredivisie, with a record of ten wins, seven draws, and three defeats. Despite a recent 1-2 loss to Olympiacos in European competition on January 28, the Amsterdam side remain one of the most dangerous attacking teams in the league. Their last five matches have produced two wins, one draw, and two defeats, with an average of 1.4 goals scored and 2.2 conceded per game. This suggests that while their attack continues to deliver, defensive lapses have occasionally cost them valuable points.

Ajax’s attacking consistency is reflected in their remarkable scoring streaks: over 1.5 total goals have been recorded in each of their last 40 matches in all competitions, and in their last 29 Eredivisie fixtures. They have also scored at least once in 21 of their last 22 league games, underlining their offensive reliability. However, their defense has been less convincing, conceding in each of their last 18 away matches and in their last 12 Eredivisie trips.

• Season stats: W 10 · D 7 · L 3


• Average goals scored: 2.0 per match


• Average goals conceded: 1.3 per match


• Over 2.5 goals in last 13 away matches


• Both teams scored in last 10 away Eredivisie matches

Ajax’s away form remains entertaining but unpredictable. They have been involved in high-scoring encounters, with both teams finding the net regularly. Their attacking unit is expected to take control early, pressing high and looking to exploit Excelsior’s defensive vulnerabilities. However, their tendency to concede on the road could leave them exposed if Excelsior manage to counter effectively.

Excelsior vs Ajax Analysis and Prediction

This fixture has historically produced goals, with the last nine meetings featuring three or more goals on average. Ajax’s attacking power and Excelsior’s defensive fragility suggest that another open and entertaining match could be on the cards. The visitors will likely dominate possession and create numerous chances, while the hosts will rely on compact defending and quick transitions to surprise their opponents.

Given Ajax’s strong offensive record and Excelsior’s inconsistency at the back, the balance of probabilities leans toward an away victory. However, Excelsior’s fighting spirit at home and their previous ability to challenge Ajax earlier in the season mean that the visitors cannot afford complacency. The key battle will be between Ajax’s relentless attack and Excelsior’s attempt to stay organized defensively.

Statistically, Ajax’s matches have been rich in goals, with over 2.5 goals occurring in 60% of their recent fixtures and both teams scoring in 60% of cases. Excelsior’s recent form also points toward open games, making this encounter likely to follow a similar pattern. The combination of Ajax’s attacking prowess and their defensive vulnerabilities could lead to another high-scoring affair.

Excelsior vs Ajax prediction by BetMines:
Over 2.5 goals with 60% probability.