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A highly anticipated Europa League playoff clash awaits as Bulgarian champions Ludogorets Razgrad prepare to host Dutch heavyweights Ajax at the Huvepharma Arena. Both teams have had their share of ups and downs in recent campaigns, but a spot in the Europa League group stages adds significant weight to this contest.

Analysis: Ludogorets, who have historically dominated the Bulgarian top-flight, are experiencing a mixed start to their domestic campaign, with two losses already tainting their record. However, their emphatic 5-1 win against Astana in the Europa League qualifying showcases their potency. The question remains: Can they keep their European dream alive against a team of Ajax’s stature?

Ajax, on the other hand, find themselves in unfamiliar territory. Known for their Champions League exploits, missing out on Europe’s premier club competition is a blow. The Dutch giants, having finished third in the Eredivisie last season, are eager to prove their continental pedigree in the Europa League.

Recent form also suggests an intriguing battle. While Ludogorets’ unbeaten home record is commendable, Ajax’s unbeaten start to the 2023-24 campaign under Maurice Steijn can’t be overlooked.

Key Players: Ludogorets will bank on the attacking trio of Bernard Tekpetey, Rwan Seco, and Kiril Despodov. Their pace and dynamism could trouble the Ajax defence.

Ajax, missing some key players through injury, will look towards Mohammed Kudus, Steven Bergwijn, and the young striker Brian Brobbey to provide the firepower upfront. Their collective experience and individual brilliance could be the difference on the night.

Past Meetings: This will be the first-ever meeting between the two sides. However, the historical statistics offer some insights. Ludogorets holds a 100% win record against Dutch opponents, while Ajax has won six of their eight encounters against Bulgarian teams. However, it’s worth noting that both of Ajax’s losses against Bulgarian sides came away from home.

Prediction: Considering both team’s recent form, pedigree, and historical stats, the game promises to be tightly contested. Ludogorets, with home advantage and their unbeaten record, will pose a significant challenge. But Ajax, with their rich European history and talented squad, might just edge it.

Goal.mu predict a 2-1 victory for Ajax. The Dutch side’s experience in European competitions and their potent attacking force may be too much for the Bulgarian champions to handle.

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