Eredivisie Showdown: PSV Eindhoven Hosts Ajax for Title Race Clash

EINDHOVEN, Netherlands — A highly anticipated match in the Eredivisie kicks off this Sunday, March 30, 2025, as PSV Eindhoven welcomes Ajax to the Philips Stadion. This top-of-the-table clash, known as De Topper, has major implications for the title race, with PSV needing to close a six-point gap to their rivals leading the league.

After a successful start to the season, where PSV won 14 of their first 16 matches, the team has struggled since the beginning of 2025, winning only two of their last six league games. Their last outing before the international break resulted in a dominant 3-0 victory over RKC Waalwijk. Manager Peter Bosz emphasized the importance of this match, stating, ‘We are duty-bound to win. If we lose, we will be nine points behind, and a draw will do us little good. I think we should win this match in front of our own crowd.’

Despite their dip in form, PSV boasts an unbeaten home record this season, with 10 wins and three draws in league play, scoring two or more goals in all but one of those matches. As they attempt to regain their title credentials, their goal difference stands at +48, a stark contrast to Ajax’s +35.

Ajax arrives in Eindhoven after a disappointing exit from the Europa League and a 2-2 draw against AZ Alkmaar. Despite this setback, Ajax has remained consistent in the Eredivisie, with an 11-game unbeaten run and five consecutive away victories. Manager Francesco Farioli has cultivated a resilient team, one that has shown the ability to rebound from adversity.

In previous encounters, PSV has historically performed well against Ajax at home, winning 34 out of their last 68 meetings in Eindhoven. Luuk de Jong, PSV’s leading scorer, has a strong record against Ajax, netting six goals in his last five matches against them.

However, PSV will miss forward Lucas Pérez, recently diagnosed with tuberculosis. Bosz remarked on the situation, saying, ‘I was called by the doctor. Then you are shocked. You think about that boy, terrible. It’s been a big topic for a few days, but fortunately now it’s back to football.’

In contrast, Ajax will lack Anton Gaaei due to suspension. His absence creates an opportunity for PSV’s attackers, particularly Noa Lang, who will be eager to bounce back after a missed penalty with the Dutch national team. The match kicks off at 14:30 GMT+1, and the atmosphere at PSV’s home ground is expected to be electric. Fans will witness not just a contest for three points but a clash for pride and the dominance in Dutch football.

Regarding expected lineups, PSV is anticipated to use a 4-3-3 formation with Benitez in goal, while Ajax is likely to stick with a 4-2-3-1 setup. The bookmakers have placed PSV as the favorites to win, with odds of 1.7, while Ajax stands at 4.3 for an away victory.

With so much at stake and both teams fully aware of the implications, Sunday promises a thrilling encounter that could significantly impact the title race in the Eredivisie.