At the Johan Cruyff Arena on 5 November 2025, Ajax face Galatasaray in a Champions League encounter that could prove decisive for both teams’ qualification hopes.
Pick: Both Teams to Score – Yes
The selection is BTTS – Yes, supported by both sides’ recent performances and tactical tendencies. Ajax are generally solid at home but rarely keep clean sheets against higher-calibre opposition, while Galatasaray’s attacking power ensures they can threaten any defence, even when playing cautiously.
Ajax: Compact at Home but Still Vulnerable
Ajax’s performances in Amsterdam have shown greater defensive structure compared to their away form, yet their lack of attacking sharpness often forces them to play in tight scorelines. They’ve kept only two clean sheets in their last seven home matches in Europe, and their defensive line struggles against pace and physicality - both present in Galatasaray’s front line. The Dutch side, however, tend to find the net in nearly all home fixtures thanks to their high-possession game and strong wing play.
Galatasaray: Balanced but Threatening
Okan Buruk’s team travel to the Netherlands after a strong domestic run. Despite a heavy loss in their only Champions League away match so far, Galatasaray’s form has since improved, largely due to a shift toward a compact, counterattacking style. Their attack - led by Mauro Icardi, Zaha, and Mertens - remains dangerous, even when operating from a deeper block. The Turks have scored in nine of their last ten competitive games, and their technical quality in transition should yield opportunities against Ajax.
