Ajax want the pass, Atalanta fights injuries

A victory over Ajax is decisive to keep qualification hopes alive for the next stage of the UEFA Conference League, recalling the previous Champions League encounter in 2020, while Atalanta must avenge the defeat against Milan to stay in the race at the top of the group, all to be decided at the Johan Cruyff Arena in Amsterdam.

Ajax in form but at a crossroads

Ajax, coached by Míchel, arrives at the continental showdown revitalized by the thunderous 5-2 inflicted on Groningen in the Eredivisie last weekend. The success was fueled by the double scores from Brandt and Mokio. The win has taken the red‑white club to 18 points after nine matchdays, placing them fourth in the Eredivisie, but the team remains in the lower part of the UEFA Conference League table. The Spanish manager, however, must deal with a war‑time bulletin: among the permanent injuries are Dolberg, Adingra, Gaaei, Berghuis, Caio Henrique and Daley Blind, plus the absence of Yves Bissouma from the UEFA list.

Míchel will rely on experienced quality with faces familiar to Italian football: Sofyan Amrabat in midfield, Davy Klaassen on the right wing, Arokodare up front, supported by the creativity of Julian Brandt and the young Gloukh. In goal, the certainty and leadership of ter Stegen will provide defensive stability.

Julian Brandt thrills Ajax, convinces van der Vaart's critics

Atalanta between hopes and injury crisis

Sarri's Atalanta flies to Amsterdam with the support of 2,200 fans, but must avenge the San Siro defeat against Milan (3‑2). In Europe, the Dea began with a convincing 3‑1 win over Pafos, temporarily placing them fourth with 3 points, behind Brighton, Copenhagen and Trabzonspor.

Sarri must do without eight players: the defence is decimated by the absences of Hien, Kossounou, Scalvini and Kolasinac; in midfield the muscle problem of Franck Kessié; up front Raspadori and Sulemana are missing, as well as third‑choice goalkeeper Pompei. The defensive options include Kristensen paired with the young Relja Obric, while in attack Scamacca, De Ketelaere, Elmas, Rowe and Zalewski are ready to lead the offense.

Mossou praises Arokodare, unique striker on the way to Eredivisie top

The result will be decisive for the fight for progression in the UEFA Conference League: a win will keep Ajax's qualification hopes alive, while Atalanta will look to consolidate a position in the top half of the group.