Champions League: OM–Ajax, a decisive test to finally launch the European campaign

A European showdown long overdue

More than ten years. That’s how long the people of Marseille have been waiting to see their team win at home in the Champions League. Tonight, against Ajax Amsterdam, the opportunity is here: to write a new page in front of 65,000 supporters ready to set the Vélodrome ablaze. Roberto De Zerbi said it clearly in the press conference: “We want to do well for the fans, and we earned this last year after a difficult season.”

The equation is simple: after the opening defeat in Madrid (2-1), points are an absolute must to stay alive in this group of death. And in a season where OM has already shown its ability to raise their level against the giants (victory over PSG, success in Strasbourg), the time has come to bring that same energy onto the European stage.

OM confident but not euphoric

The Phocaeans approach this clash with momentum, driven by three consecutive Ligue 1 wins and a renewed sense of purpose. Squad depth, long considered a weakness, has now become a strength. De Zerbi has used his players smartly, just as he did in Strasbourg where the introductions of Greenwood, Aubameyang, Emerson, Pavard and Vaz turned the game.

The Italian coach keeps repeating: “The important thing is that everyone contributes.” Managing energy will be crucial in a run where matches come every three days. And while Amine Gouiri is going through a dry spell, De Zerbi has made sure to protect him: “Amine had an excellent game. The goals will come.” Meanwhile, Aubameyang looks rejuvenated and remains the main attacking threat – especially against Ajax, a team he tormented with five goals across two matches in the 2023-24 Europa League.

Ajax, between prestige and rebuilding

On the other side, Ajax is no longer the powerhouse it was a few years ago. The Amsterdam club collapsed at the end of last season, throwing away a title within its grasp and watching much of its squad leave. Sixteen departures, leaders gone (Hato, Brobbey, Henderson, Sosa…), and the arrival of John Heitinga, a club man, tasked with restarting the project with a new generation.

So far, the results have been mixed: third in the Eredivisie after seven games (4 wins, 3 draws), Ajax is still finding its rhythm, capable of moments of brilliance but also worrying fragilities. Beaten 2-0 by Inter in their UCL opener, the Dutch arrive in Marseille aiming to bounce back but missing several key players: Weghorst and Dolberg are out, depriving the team of true target men up front.

Heitinga is expected to opt for a false 9 with Oscar Gloukh, supported by Steven Berghuis and young Mika Godts. In midfield, Klaassen and Taylor will bring experience, but the physical battle against the Højbjerg–O’Riley duo promises to be tough. Defensively, attacking fullbacks (Wijndal, Gaaei) could struggle against the direct runs of Greenwood and Weah.

The Vélodrome, a decisive factor

If OM dreams of a great night, they know they can count on their fans. More than 65,000 spectators are expected, a Champions League attendance record at the Vélodrome. De Zerbi stressed it: “The start has to be very strong, like against PSG. That’s how you create magic with the fans.”

The atmosphere could even play a psychological role: with away travel banned, no Ajax supporters will be present. Steven Berghuis himself admitted: “The Vélodrome will be an obstacle to overcome.” An obstacle OM hopes to turn into a springboard towards a long-awaited victory in Marseille.

Keys to the match

• Pressing and midfield intensity: Højbjerg and O’Riley must impose their will against Klaassen and Taylor.
• Explosive wings: Greenwood, Paixão or Weah against Ajax’s attacking fullbacks – a duel to exploit.
• Aubameyang as the X factor: His pace and record against Ajax could tip the balance.
• A fiery Vélodrome: A powerful start could swing the game.

Expected verdict

Tonight, it’s about more than just three points. It’s about launching a European campaign, breaking a painful drought, and proving that OM belongs at the top level. Ajax may arrive weakened, but it remains a name that carries weight. It’s up to Marseille to seize the moment, and to turn the Vélodrome into a volcano in order to take control of this Champions League group.