Union Berlin vs Ajax prediction: EUROPE: Europa League – Play Offs betting tips on match 2023-02-22 20:00.
After recording their first ever positive result against Dutch opposition in the first-leg with a 0-0 draw (D1, L2), Union Berlin doubled up on goalless draws against Schalke at the weekend to move level on points with Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund at the Bundesliga summit to claim a three-way share of the lead. It’s now been 198 minutes since anyone scored in games involving Union, but something has to give here as the Iron Ones look to extend their club record-breaking season in Europe into the UEFA Europa League (UEL) last-16.
Despite their mini scoring drought, the Berliners remain unbeaten across all competitions in 2023 (W6, D2), and are also unbeaten at home dating back to Union’s UEL opener last September (W9, D2). Whatever happens, don’t bank on a hefty result either way as four of Union’s last five wins came by a 2-1 scoreline, and each of their UEL group games ended 1-0 (W4, L2)!
The revival of Ajax under Johnny Heitinga (W5, D1) continued over the weekend as a 4-0 win over Sparta Rotterdam kept them within striking distance of Eredivisie leaders and bitter rivals, Feyenoord. That result should serve as a perfect confidence booster ahead of their trip to Germany in what is a competition-record tenth knockout stage appearance.
Although the bookmakers dictate Union are favourites, Ajax won’t feel like outsiders given their European pedigree and solid all-time record against German opponents (W23, D8, L8). That’s not to mention their 60% unbeaten rate against such opposition on German soil (W7, D5, L8), and the fact they’ve progressed from ten of their previous 12 two-legged ties against sides from across the border.
Key battle: Union keeper Frederik Ronnow has had precious little to do across their last two scoreless draws, making just two saves and none against Ajax in the first leg! Whilst that is testament to the Iron Ones’ tenacious defence, Ajax’s Mohammed Kudus will hope to have a say after making six goal contributions in seven European appearances this season (G4, A2). The Ghanaian forward also scored the last goal of the game in their 4-0 weekend win against Sparta Rotterdam before revealing a touching tribute to the late Christian Atsu.
Hot streak: Union have scored one or no goals in each of their last 11 European outings (W5, D2, L4).