In-form Ajax backed to overcome Shelbourne at home

Ajax host Shelbourne in the first leg of the UEFA Conference League third qualifying round early on Friday. Ajax enter the tie in better form and have far more European experience, making them favourites to secure a home victory.

Including friendlies, Ajax have won five consecutive matches in all competitions. Their attack has been particularly productive in the last four, scoring at least two goals in each game. In the previous Conference League round, Ajax beat Vojvodina in both legs and scored eight goals across the tie.

Israeli midfielder Oscar Gloukh was one of Ajax's standout performers in that round. He scored in both legs and completed a hat-trick at home in the return fixture, making him a key figure in Ajax's pursuit of another home win.

Shelbourne, meanwhile, have considerably less European experience than Ajax. The Irish side have failed to win inside 90 minutes in four of their last five matches across all competitions and have lost their last two.

They also failed to beat Kalju in both legs of the previous round. After winning the home leg 5-2, Shelbourne lost the away return 2-1, conceding twice in each match. Their recent form and defensive record leave them facing a difficult trip to Ajax.