Preview: Ajax vs. Barcelona

As expected, Barcelona have proved themselves to be the dominant force in Champions League Group H, which also contains AC Milan, Celtic and their hosts on Tuesday night Ajax.

The Spaniards have already qualified for the knockout stages with two matches left to spare and if they avoid defeat at the Amsterdam ArenA, then they will secure top spot.

Talisman Lionel Messi will play no part in the Netherlands because of a hamstring injury that has ruled him out of action until January. Victor Valdes will also be absent with a calf complaint, which should see Jose Pinto deputise in goal.

Coach Gerardo Martino has also been tipped to rotate his side, with the likes of Adriano, Javier Mascherano and Sergi Roberto all in contention for a place in the starting lineup.

Meanwhile Ajax, who go into the match third and needing a win to realistically stand any chance of reaching the last 16, will be without former Barca striker Bojan.

Recent form

Ajax: DWLWWW

Barcelona: WWWWWW

Possible starting lineups

Ajax: Cillessen; Moisander, Boilesen, Veltman, Van Rhijn; Blind Schone, Serero; Klaassen, Hoesen, Fischer

Barcelona: Pinto; Adriano, Pique, Mascherano, Montoya; Roberto, Fabregas, Iniesta; Sanchez, Pedro; Neymar

Sports Mole says: 0-2