Ajax face tricky trip to Vojvodina in Conference League qualifier

The first leg of the UEFA Conference League second qualifying round continues on Friday morning, with Vojvodina hosting Ajax. Vojvodina ended their losing run with a league win in their last outing, which should lift morale, but facing Dutch giants Ajax means they will need to stay fully focused.

Vojvodina were knocked out in the first round of the Europa qualifiers by Ferencvaros with a 1-5 aggregate defeat, which underlined their limited competitiveness in European competition. Their last appearance in a proper European campaign dates back to the last century, so their continental experience is clearly lacking. That said, they were strong at home in last season's domestic league, posting 12 wins, 5 draws and 2 defeats from 19 matches. They also thrashed OFK Belgrade 4-0 at home in their latest league game thanks to goals from L. Ranjelovic and Sukacev among others, showing they do carry some home threat. Against Ajax, Vojvodina have a chance to avoid defeat on home soil.

Ajax's league campaign last season was unquestionably disappointing, with the Dutch powerhouse finishing only fifth and needing the playoffs to secure a place in the Conference League. Even so, Ajax completely outclass Vojvodina in European pedigree and honours. They were still playing in the Champions League proper last season and have won the European Cup four times. One point to note, however, is that Ajax do not appear to have fully found their rhythm in pre-season. Although they beat Olympiacos in their last friendly through a winning goal from O. Emmerson, their return across the last four friendlies stands at just 2 wins, 1 draw and 1 defeat, with a combined goals record of 4 scored and 4 conceded. There is still plenty of room for improvement at both ends of the pitch. On this trip to Vojvodina, a draw may be the most realistic target for Ajax.