Ajax and Juventus are set to clash a Champions League Quarterfinal matchup of yore, with both legendary clubs hoping to bring the trophy back to their respective countries. The last time that happened for each was on back-to-back occasions, with Ajax winning in 1995 and Juventus winning in 1996. One of them has to go home again this year, but we’ll get to watch them fight it out over two legs.
Champions League Quarterfinals
Ajax vs. Juventus
Date: Wednesday, April 10
Time: 3:00 PM ET
TV Channel: Galavision
Live Stream: fuboTV (watch for free)
Match Preview: Ajax might possibly be the most entertaining side left in the Champions League. Their young and exciting brand of soccer has captivated the world en route to the quarterfinals. The famous Dutch club upgraded from fun story to legitimate contenders when they knocked out defending champions Real Madrid in the Round of 16. While they have a fraction of the payroll that the other huge teams left in the competition do, their player development system is in the middle of a massive boom.
You need to look no further for proof of this than midfielder Frenkie de Jong. The 21-year-old reached an agreement to join FC Barcelona on a massive deal next season. Before he leaves for the big time, he’ll be hoping to lead the club that brought him through their famed system to glory.
Unlike their opponents, who have very little to worry about other than this tournament, Ajax is mired in a heated battle at the top of their domestic league. Currently, they are deadlocked with rivals PSV on 71 points as the season winds down. They are in fine form lately, winning nine of their last 10 in all competitions.
Juventus were sweating over the fitness of Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of this tie, but he has been deemed fit to take part. On the other hand, they’ve been dealt a defensive blow with Giorgio Chiellini unavailable for selection.
The Old Lady is running away with Serie A as they hold a massive 20-point lead over second-place Napoli. While they’ve only suffered one league defeat all season, their Champions League record isn’t as stellar. They dropped the first leg of their Round of 16 tie with Atletico Madrid, 2-0, forcing them to make a dramatic 3-0 comeback at home to advance.
Juve is the more recognizable side, stacked full of superstars. However, Ajax is young and hungry to succeed with their talented squad before they are inevitably broken up by the big spenders of Europe. This should be one fascinating tie.
We recommend interesting sports viewing and streaming opportunities. If you sign up to a service by clicking one of the links, we may earn a referral fee.
