Serbian grit versus Dutch class: prediction for Vojvodina vs Ajax
The first leg of the UEFA Conference League second qualifying round between Vojvodina and Ajax is set for July 23, 2026, at the Karadjordje Stadium in Novi Sad. The Serbian side dropped into this tournament after being eliminated by Ferencváros in Europa League qualifying, while the Amsterdam giants are just beginning their quest for a spot in the main stage of European competition.
Vojvodina: painful exit and a vibrant league response
Vojvodina had hoped for a longer run in the Europa League, but drew one of the toughest opponents of the opening round. After a 1-2 home defeat to Ferencváros, the Serbian side fell 0-3 in Budapest and crashed out with an aggregate score of 1-5.
They bounced back immediately in the Serbian league opener, thrashing OFK Belgrade 4-0. Nardin Mulahusejnović netted a brace and is set to keep his place at the heart of the attack. However, the hosts’ European record remains a concern: Vojvodina have suffered seven defeats in their last eight continental outings.
Ajax: new manager and a bid to stop the downward spiral
The Amsterdam club is enduring a turbulent period and narrowly avoided missing out on European football entirely. After finishing fifth in the Eredivisie, Ajax had to overcome Utrecht in the playoff final, clinching their Conference League ticket only via a penalty shootout. Interim coach Oscar Garcia departed soon after.
Now, the rebuild is led by former Girona boss Míchel, who’s tasked with steering Ajax back to the Champions League and ending their 32-year European trophy drought. The squad has been reinforced with Daley Blind, Caio Henrique, and Marcos Leonardo, while in their final preseason friendly, Ajax edged Olympiacos 1-0 thanks to a late goal from substitute Oliver Edvardsen.
Match facts and head-to-head
- Vojvodina have lost seven of their last eight matches in European competition.
- The Serbian club kicked off their new league campaign with a 4-0 win over OFK Belgrade.
- In the 2023/24 Europa League qualifiers, Ajax eliminated Vojvodina with a 4-1 aggregate victory.
Class should tell: Vojvodina vs Ajax prediction
Vojvodina will look to capitalize on Ajax’s lack of match sharpness. The Serbian outfit have already played competitive fixtures and will likely try to impose a high-intensity, physical game from the outset. However, Kornel Suc, sent off against Ferencváros, remains suspended, further weakening the hosts’ defense.
Ajax are still adapting to their new manager’s ideas, but the individual quality throughout their squad is a clear advantage. Even with limited match practice, the Dutch side should gradually take control, use their attacking pace, and punish any defensive lapses. Vojvodina could find the net with home support behind them, but keeping Ajax quiet for 90 minutes will be a tall order.
