What do you think? Easy walk-over for the Arse? Or is Ajax capable of another (almost) stunt like in Valencia (lucky stunt)? I'm hoping for the latter ofcourse. But if Arsenal are on top of their game I'm afraid Ajax will have a lot of trouble. If Arsenal are not... anything is possible.
with VDV back, im predicting a draw - 1 or 2-all i think if AJAX can split points with the gunners they should advance in any event, i expect a classic pair of matches - please PLEASE PLEASE!!! espn show the amsterdam meeting (barca v. newcastle is the feb 18th showing)
1-nil to the Arsenal. And I hope to God that ESPN broadcasts it, but if history is any indication, we'll get screwed again. Vive le AFC! OPArse
This is an interesting match up, not least of all because so many Gooners, especially here in the States, seem to also have a spot in their heart for Ajax, myself included. I think Arsenal are the superior squad, but on their day Ajax can be a tricky opponent. Arsenal's European form has improved this year, so I think Arsenal should prevail. I hope they both advance.
I agree Rick, I have a place for Ajax myself. Mostly because it was the only team from Holland Id ever heard of as they won year after year. Its too bad FSW quit the Eredivisie coverage or Id tell you what I thought. Not having seen Ajax in a year I couldnt venture a guess.
With JOB out I expect to see Arsenal streaking down the right side, and if it's Bobby or Freddy making the runs you know they're going to whip some wicked crosses in. Whether or not those crosses are converted is another question. These games should be pretty entertaining. I don't expect Ajax to lay down but I do think that Arsenal are a superior team.
We should have too much for Ajax, but I think a fast start is the key. Getting Thierry and Pires (and hopefully fred if he's fit) running at the Ajax back four early is essential, pressure for the whole ninety minutes will see us through. I haven't seen Ajax play this year, I'm looking forward to seeing Van der Vaart play, I've heard a lot ofgood things about him.
Arsenal-Ajax From what I've seen of Ajax this year, they are a pretty decent side who move the ball around well, and are technically excellent - as you would expect from a top Dutch team. They can put pressure on us in spells with fast attacking inter-play, a bit like PSV away earlier this season, so they shouldn't be underestimated. Van der Vaart is a great ball player, but the other one to watch out for is the tricky Ibrahimovic, who, on his day, can tear most defences apart. I wouldn't mind either of these two in an Arsenal shirt. They haven't got too much at the back, though, and I think if we hit them hard and early we'll win at home. A draw at their place is probably the best we can hope for, though. Still, 4 points should see us through to the QF. I just can't believe no one has used the "we'll wipe the floor with them gag". Maybe it's just a <bad> British joke.
WHAT DOES IT TAKE???!!! According to soccertv, the Barca/Inter game will be on espn. Once again we get screwed!!! What does it take to get some shine? Winning the Double ain't enough? We should start an email campaign or sumthin'.