Preview: Ajax vs. Real Madrid

Two of the most decorated clubs in European history clash on Wednesday when Ajax welcome nine-time champions Real Madrid to the Amsterdam Arena.

Ajax, who have four European cups to their name, will be looking to make it third time lucky in the Champions League Group D clash, having lost against Madrid in the past two seasons.

The Dutch outfit lost their opening match of the campaign to Borussia Dortmund, but have identified their home matches as paramount to their success.

Madrid, meanwhile, got off to a slow start in La Liga, but they have won their last two matches and also overcame Manchester City on matchday one of the campaign.

The Spanish outfit have also beaten the 31-time Dutch champions in five of their last 10 encounters.

Ajax are expected to name Ryan Babel in their starting side. Meanwhile, Madrid could keep faith with Gonzalo Higuain and Angel di Maria in attack.

Recent form:

Ajax: WLDWW Real Madrid: WLWWW

Possible lineups:

Ajax: Vermeer; Van Rhijn, Alderweireld, Moisander, Blind; De Jong, Poulsen, Eriksen; Sana, Babel, Boerrigter

Real Madrid: Casillas; Ramos, Varane, Pepe, Marcelo; Alonso, Modric; Di Maria, Ozil, Ronaldo; Higuain

Sports Mole says: 1-3