PEC Zwolle v Ajax: opener pits hosts seeking a reset against visitors on a roll | OneFootball

PEC Zwolle host Ajax in the Eredivisie on Sunday, 9 August 2026 in Zwolle, with both sides starting on zero points and looking to set the tone for the season.

Ajax have dominated this fixture in recent years, but PEC Zwolle held them to a goalless draw here in March, a reminder that the margins can tighten in Zwolle.

Zwolle's recent run shows four defeats in five across friendlies and last season's cup, while the Godenzonen come in buoyant after five straight wins, including Conference League victories home and away against Vojvodina and a 3-1 success over Shelbourne.

Zwolle list forward Younes Namli and goalkeeper Duke Verduin as injured until 10 August. For the visitors, defenders Josip Šutalo, Ahmetcan Kaplan and Dies Janse are also listed as injured.

With a summer of multi-goal wins behind them, the Godenzonen could look to impose their attacking rhythm through forwards such as Kasper Dolberg or Marcos Leonardo, while Zwolle may seek a compact approach similar to March's stalemate.

Both teams begin on zero points. A win would put three points on the board and could lift the Godenzonen up the early standings, while Zwolle would aim to settle into mid-table. Next, Zwolle travel to FC Twente on 16 August, while the Godenzonen host Heerenveen.