Ajax v Real Madrid Betting Tips: Can the hosts upset the holders?

Odds and preview for Champions League last-16 tie

Have Real Madrid hit form just in time for their annual Champions League push?

After a disappointing start to the campaign, they’ve won six of their last seven games, with a draw away to Barcelona the only blip.

They travel away to Ajax for the first leg of their last-16 tie tonight. The Dutch side haven’t lost at home since November 2017. But two of their three losses this term have come in their last three outings.

Can they raise their game against the defending champions? BT Sport 3 will be bringing you the action live from 8:00pm.

Head-to-Head

Real Madrid have won seven and Ajax have won four of the previous 12 meetings between the two sides.

However, the last Ajax victory was back in 1995 when they last held the title. The Spanish giants have won all six clashes during this decade – scoring 20 goals and only conceding two.

Likely XIs

Erik ten Hag will hope that Frenkie de Jong can shake off an injury to start here. The midfielder can endear himself to Barcelona fans ahead of his summer move with a strong showing against their La Liga rivals. The Ajax boss has his strongest XI available otherwise.

Lucas Vazquez is set to keep his place on the right for Madrid, while Vinicius Junior has impressed on the left recently. That means Gareth Bale may be among the substitutes.

Marcelo could miss out too. His shaky performances have given Sergio Reguilon an opportunity at left-back. The 22-year-old has taken full advantage. Sergio Ramos will also make his 600th appearance for the club tonight.