Ajax vs Inter Prediction & Betting Tips (17 September)

The Champions League clash between Ajax and Inter Milan promises a riveting spectacle, with both sides entering the fixture amid waves of transition and ambition. Ajax, under the guidance of Maurice Steijn, have been recalibrating their squad with a flurry of summer moves. The return of Kasper Dolberg and the acquisition of Oscar Gloukh from RB Salzburg signal a renewed attacking intent, while defensive reinforcements like Ko Itakura add steel to the backline. Despite a rocky start to the Eredivisie campaign, including two defeats and two draws, Ajax’s recent 2-0 win over PSV Eindhoven has injected fresh belief into the Amsterdam camp.

Inter Milan, meanwhile, arrive in Amsterdam with a squad that’s been reshaped for resilience and flair. Simone Inzaghi’s side has seen notable exits—Mehdi Taremi and Marko Arnautović among them—but the arrivals of Ange-Yoan Bonny, Andy Diouf, and Luis Henrique have added dynamism across the pitch. Their Serie A opener was emphatic: a 5-0 demolition of Torino, with Bonny and Lautaro Martínez both on the scoresheet. However, a 2-1 stumble against Udinese exposed defensive frailties, even as Manuel Akanji and Benjamin Pavard were brought in to shore up the backline.

Tactically, Ajax will likely lean on their fluid midfield, with Gloukh and Kristian Hlynsson orchestrating transitions, while Dolberg’s return offers a focal point up front. Inter’s threat will hinge on the interplay between Martínez and Thuram, whose chemistry has already yielded goals. The battle in midfield—Diouf versus Itakura—could be decisive, with both players capable of dictating tempo and breaking lines. Expect Ajax to press high and exploit Inter’s occasional lapses in defensive shape, especially with their new recruits still bedding in.

Prediction-wise, the edge tilts subtly toward Ajax. Home advantage, coupled with a rejuvenated squad and recent momentum, suggests they could edge this encounter 2-1. Inter’s firepower will ensure they find the net, but Ajax’s tactical discipline and hunger to reclaim European stature may just tip the balance. It’s a scoreline that reflects both teams’ current trajectories—competitive, evolving, and brimming with potential.