USV Hercules vs Ajax prediction 21.12.2023

• Date: 21.12.2023
• Competition: KNVB Beker
• KO: 17:45 UTC / 18:45 CET
• Venue: Stadion Galgenwaard (Utrecht)

Stadion Galgenwaard is the host for a KNVB Beker tie on Thursday as underdogs USV Hercules entertain Ajax on neutral territory.

USV Hercules vs Ajax Betting Tips: Ajax and Over 3.5 Goals

Fourth-tier Hercules have endured a recent run of poor form, with their 2-1 defeat against HSC '21 on Sunday marking their third loss in four matches over the past month.

Despite this, René Van der Kooij's side have a decent home record, having won six of their last nine matches at their usual home ground, Sportpark Voordorp.

After enduring the worst start to an Eredivisie campaign in their history, Ajax has gradually improved their form, with four wins in a row before a 2-2 draw against PEC Zwolle on Sunday.

Having briefly flirted with the relegation zone, Ajax are up to fifth place in the Eredivisie, with only two defeats in eleven matches under the guidance of new manager John Van 't Schip. This is a significant improvement from their previous eight-game losing streak before the former Greece boss took charge in November.

Ajax's defensive frailties, particularly on the road, have been the team's biggest Achilles' heel this season. In the last seven away matches, they have conceded a shocking 20 goals, leaking two or more goals in six of those fixtures.

Given Ajax recent numbers, I anticipate a high-scoring affair on Thursday, with a minimum of four goals scored I'm backing an Ajax victory and over 3.5 goals, while  the possibility of both teams scoring cannot be disregarded with the visitors leaking so many away goals this season.