Chelsea host Ajax in the Champions League on Wednesday, looking to make it back-to-back wins in the competition.
Enzo Maresca‘s side managed to beat Benfica 1-0 last time out, which followed their 3-1 defeat to Bayern Munich on matchday 1.
Wednesday will not be the first time Chelsea take on Ajax, with the two European giants having faced off twice back in the 2019/20 season.
Over the summer, Chelsea did a bit of business with Ajax, purchasing Jorrel Hato from their Dutch counterparts. Since Hato’s departure, Ajax’s win rate has decreased drastically.
Cesar Azpilicueta’s winner against Ajax was ruled out by VAR
The last time Chelsea and Ajax met, they played out a thrilling 4-4 draw at Stamford Bridge.
It was a Champions League clash that had everything: own goals, red cards, penalties and VAR intervention.
Had it not been for the VAR, Chelsea would have won the game. Cesar Azpilicueta hit a fantastic strike into Andre Onana’s net before the 80th-minute mark to put the home side 5-4 up on the night.
However, the former Chelsea captain was judged to have handled the ball before his strike and it was disallowed.
The Stamford Bridge faithful would have been disappointed, but they still had plenty of reason to be happy after the full-time whistle.
At one stage, Frank Lampard’s side were 4-1 down. However, a couple of red cards for Ajax completely changed the game for Chelsea before Reece James’ famous equaliser.
A good result in the end considering the circumstances, but it could have been even better if VAR did not exist.
Chelsea players in defensive line during Ajax clash
Photo by Visionhaus
Chelsea vs Ajax prediction
Despite all of their injuries, Chelsea are picking up a bit of form. They have won their last three games in all competitions, which includes a 2-1 victory over Liverpool.
In contrast, Ajax are struggling right now, losing their last match against AZ Alkmaar 2-0. They also lost their previous Champions League outing 4-0 to Marseille.
With all of the above in mind, The Chelsea Chronicle is going with a 2-0 win for the Blues.