Will Ajax extend their unbeaten run against Heerenveen? Eredivisie match prediction: Ajax vs Heerenveen
Today, August 16, 2026, at 16:45 Central European Time, the Johan Cruyff Arena in Amsterdam will host the second-round clash of the 2026/27 Dutch Eredivisie: Ajax takes on Heerenveen.
Both teams kicked off the new domestic campaign with victories, collecting three points each in the opening round. However, the Amsterdam showdown traditionally sees the hosts installed as overwhelming favorites.
Ajax has historically been a nightmare opponent for the Frisians: the Amsterdammers have won 18 of the last 22 head-to-head encounters, with 3 draws and only one victory for Heerenveen.
Ajax
The club from Amsterdam has hit the ground running in the 2026/27 season. In the Eredivisie opener, the "God's sons" confidently defeated PEC Zwolle away, 2-0, dominating possession at nearly 70% and firing 14 shots on target. Simultaneously, the team is competing in the Conference League qualifiers, where they've already booked a playoff spot after dispatching Irish side Shelbourne.
Up front, Ajax's attacking trio—Julian Brandt, Tolu Arokodare, and Oscar Gloukh—are in fine form. The only concern for the coaching staff remains minor injuries in the back line (with Daley Blind sidelined), which at times leads to mistakes when facing opponents' rapid counterattacks.
Heerenveen
The Frisians kicked off their campaign with a stunning home shutout win over European contenders Twente (1-0). The only goal came from Luca Oyen, assisted by Jakob Trenskow. Heerenveen showcased impressive defensive commitment, making over 40 clearances and excelling in their underdog role.
On the road in Amsterdam, the "Hearts" are unlikely to change their tactical blueprint: expect two tight defensive lines, aiming for long balls behind Ajax's defenders and capitalizing on the occasional set piece.
Probable lineups
- Ajax: ter Stegen - Rosa, Bouwman, Baas, Henrique - Regeer, Klaasen, Gloukh - Berghuis, Brandt, Arokodare
- Heerenveen: Klaverboer - Petrov, Willemsen, Kersten, Zagaritis - Proper, Linday, Meerveld - Trenskow, Oyen, Vente
Prediction
Given the head-to-head statistics and Ajax's squad depth—allowing them to ramp up the pressure with fresh legs in the second half—the margin could well reach two goals or more. My prediction: Ajax to win with an Asian handicap (-1).
