Sun Feb 01 11:20:00 UTC 2026: ### Ajax Aim to Rebound Against Underdog Excelsior After European Setback

The Story:
SBV Excelsior is set to host Ajax Amsterdam on Sunday, February 1, 2026, at 12:15 for Matchday 21 of the Eredivisie. Excelsior currently sits 13th in the league with 22 points, while Ajax occupies 3rd place with 37 points. Despite their contrasting positions, the match is anticipated to be competitive. Ajax is looking to recover from a recent 1-2 home defeat against Olympiakos Piraeus, while Excelsior hopes to capitalize on Ajax’s vulnerability, leveraging their home advantage at Woudestein.

Key Points:

  • The match is scheduled for Sunday, February 1, 2026, at 12:15.
  • SBV Excelsior is currently 13th with 22 points (6 wins, 4 draws, 10 losses).
  • Ajax Amsterdam is 3rd with 37 points (10 wins, 7 draws, 3 losses).
  • Excelsior’s home record is 4 wins, 1 draw, and 5 defeats.
  • Ajax recently lost 1-2 to Olympiakos Piraeus.
  • The previous direct encounter saw Excelsior win 2-1 against Ajax.
  • Betting odds favor an away win for Ajax (1.79) and both teams to score (1.57).

Critical Analysis:
The historical context reveals a mixed bag for both teams. While the primary article emphasizes Ajax’s recovery from a European defeat, the mention of Alkmaar hammering Ajax earlier in January suggests potential defensive vulnerabilities that Excelsior might exploit. The fact that PSV had a late equalizer against NAC, Twente dominated Excelsior-B without scoring, and a traffic accident occurred near Excelsior Road, seems to have nothing to do with the story, and may just be incidental.

Key Takeaways:

  • Ajax needs to demonstrate resilience after their European defeat to maintain their league position.
  • Excelsior will aim to exploit Ajax’s potential defensive weaknesses, relying on a compact defense and counter-attacks.
  • The previous win by Excelsior against Ajax adds an element of unpredictability to the match.
  • Betting odds reflect Ajax being favorites, but the match could be closer than expected.
  • Ajax will likely focus on their possession-based style of play and fluid attacking movements.

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