Chelsea is set to face Ajax in a highly anticipated Champions League clash at Stamford Bridge today, October 22, 2025, at 8:00 pm BST. The Blues are aiming to maintain their strong form and secure a vital win in Group play.
Chelsea's recent form:
Chelsea's recent form has been promising, with three successive victories in all competitions. Over the weekend, they dispatched Nottingham Forest 3-0 at the City Ground. In their previous Champions League match, they secured a 1-0 victory against Benfica at home. However, they did suffer a 3-1 defeat against Bayern Munich in their opening Champions League game. Currently, Chelsea sits 19th in the 36-team league phase with three points.
Ajax's recent form:
Ajax, on the other hand, has been struggling. They suffered a 2-0 defeat at home to AZ Alkmaar in the Eredivisie. In the Champions League, they lost 2-0 at home to Inter Milan and were heavily defeated 4-0 by Marseille. They are currently without a win in their last five games in major European competition.
Team News:
Chelsea faces a significant injury crisis, with key players like Cole Palmer, Liam Delap, Levi Colwill, Dario Essugo and Benoît Badiashile ruled out. Midfielders Enzo Fernández and Moisés Caicedo are also major doubts and will undergo late fitness tests. Striker João Pedro is suspended after being sent off against Benfica. Youngsters Tyrique George or Marc Guiu could potentially lead the attack. Trevoh Chalobah is available despite his domestic suspension, and Malo Gusto is eligible to play.
Ajax also has injury concerns, with Owen Wijndal doubtful. Branco van den Boomen, Kasper Dolberg, and Steven Berghuis are also doubtful. Wout Weghorst is expected to lead the line for Ajax.
Manager's perspective:
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca is aware of Ajax's history and philosophy. He anticipates a tough game but is confident in his team's ability to rise to the challenge. Ajax manager Johnny Heitinga acknowledged the quality and depth of Chelsea's squad.
Historical context:
Chelsea and Ajax have only met twice before in the Champions League, during the 2019/20 group stage. Chelsea won 1-0 in Amsterdam, and the return fixture at Stamford Bridge ended in a thrilling 4-4 draw.
Key stats and facts:
Chelsea is unbeaten in their last 12 Champions League group games at Stamford Bridge. Ajax has not won against English opposition in their last 11 major European matches. Chelsea have added 33 players to their Champions League squad, including Thiago Silva's son Isago, for administrative reasons, adding them to an unlimited 'B list' permitted by UEFA.
Prediction:
Chelsea, with their home advantage and recent form, are considered firm favorites to win. A comfortable victory for the Blues is anticipated, although Ajax will be looking to improve their poor run of form.
