Ajax vs NEC Nijmegen: prediction, head-to-head and probable lineups – 21 February 2026
In one of the matches of the 24th round of the Dutch championship this Saturday, Ajax will host NEC Nijmegen at the Johan Cruyff Arena in Amsterdam. Let's take a closer look at the outcome, factoring in Ajax’s impressive home record and the challenging head-to-head history for the visitors.
- See also: Braga vs Vitória Guimarães: prediction, head-to-head and probable lineups – 21 February 2026
Match preview
Ajax endured a difficult spell after their 1-2 defeat to Olympiacos in the Champions League, but in the Eredivisie the team is now unbeaten in three consecutive rounds. During this run, the Amsterdammers drew with AZ (1-1) and Excelsior (2-2), and confidently defeated Fortuna Sittard (4-1). Overall, their unbeaten streak in the league now stands at ten matches, and they have won their last two home games.
At home, Ajax play aggressively and productively — 26 points out of a possible 36 and one of the best home records in the league. Despite losing Zinchenko to injury, the coaching staff still has plenty of options up front, with Mika Godts standing out as a regular difference-maker both in goals and assists.
NEC Nijmegen are having a strong season and currently sit among the top three, having collected as many points as Ajax. However, the team has slowed down in recent rounds: a draw with Sparta (1-1) and a defeat to Utrecht (1-3) have complicated their fight for second place. Previously, NEC defeated AZ (3-1) and Zwolle (2-1), showing real attacking courage.
On the road, Nijmegen look confident — six away matches without defeat, with four wins and two draws. However, trips to Amsterdam have traditionally been a nightmare: just one win in their last 28 away league games against Ajax. The historical backdrop and the pressure of the Johan Cruyff Arena remain serious factors.
Probable lineups
- Ajax: Jaros, Rosa, Sutalo, Baas, Klaassen, Mokio, Stuur, Bounida, Dolberg, Godts
- NEC Nijmegen: Kretaz, Pereira, Kaplan, Dasa, Sano, Neyasmich, Chery, Willumsson, Onal, Linssen
Match facts and head-to-head
- Ajax are unbeaten in the league for ten matches.
- NEC have won only once in their last 28 away league games against Ajax.
- The first round meeting between these teams ended in a 2-2 draw.
Prediction
The match promises to be high-scoring, given both teams’ attacking styles and the high frequency of matches featuring goals from both sides. Nevertheless, home advantage and Ajax’s experience in crucial home fixtures should prove decisive.
