Ajax and Inter Milan will add another chapter to a storied Champions League rivalry when they kick off Group stage action at the Johan Cruyff Arena. This fixture is their first meeting in Europe’s elite competition since 2006, nearly two decades after the classic battles featuring legends like Seedorf and Davids.
Ajax are flying after a commanding 3-1 victory over PEC Zwolle, while Inter return as runners-up from last season’s final but are entering the Champions League tournament having suffered back-to-back league defeats to Juventus and Udinese.
Where to Watch Ajax vs Inter Milan
Fans in the United Kingdom can catch the action live on TNT Sports. United States viewers should tune in to Paramount+ and CBS Sports Network. Indian fans can catch the action on Sony Ten 2 and SonyLIV. Kick-off is set for 8:00 PM BST, 3:00 PM ET(Wednesday), 12:00 PM PT, and 12:30 AM IST (Thursday).
Probable Starting Lineups for Ajax vs. Inter Milan
Ajax
GK: Vitezslav Jaros
Defenders: Devyne Rensch, Ko Itakura, Ramon Leeuwin Baas, Owen Wijndal
Midfielders: Kenneth Taylor, Bernardo Regeer, Davy Klaassen
Forwards: Steven Berghuis, Wout Weghorst, Mika Godts
Inter Milan
GK: Yann Sommer
Defenders: Manuel Akanji, Francesco Acerbi, Alessandro Bastoni
Midfielders: Denzel Dumfries, Nicolò Barella, Hakan Çalhanoğlu, Petar Sučić, Federico Dimarco
Forwards: Lautaro Martínez, Marcus Thuram
AFC Ajax v Internazionale. pic.twitter.com/2w0xmxNRBH
— AFC Ajax (@AFCAjax) September 17, 2025
Current Form
Ajax have rediscovered their rhythm in the Eredivisie, rattling off victories in four of five league outings and averaging nearly two goals per match. Defensive lapses cost them earlier this month, but Heitinga’s men have tightened up and showcased flair through their front three.
Inter began Serie A with a thumping win over Torino but has faltered in recent derbies, conceding seven goals in two defeats. Chivu’s side remains solid away from home but has struggled to impose its typically disciplined defence against high-pressing opponents.
Key Battles in Ajax vs Inter Milan
Kenneth Taylor vs Nicolò Barella: Ajax’s young midfielder faces Inter’s midfield general in a contest for control.
Wout Weghorst vs Alessandro Bastoni: The towering Dutch striker squares off against Inter’s defensive wall in aerial duels.
Davy Klaassen vs Hakan Çalhanoğlu: Ajax’s creative leader takes on Inter’s set-piece specialist as both seek to crack open tight defences.
✈️🇳🇱#ForzaInter #AjaxInter #UCL | @Canali1934 pic.twitter.com/49acrtq9p3
— Inter ⭐⭐ (@Inter) September 16, 2025
Tactical Analysis
Ajax will look to press intensely, using width from Wijndal and Rensch to stretch Inter’s back three before cutting inside with quick one-twos. Heitinga’s fluid 4-3-3 thrives on rapid transitions and movement off the ball, aiming to disrupt the visitors’ build-up.
Inter will seek to control possession through Barella and Çalhanoğlu, inviting Ajax forward before striking on the break with pacey wing-backs and the Martínez-Thuram partnership. Their back-line must remain compact to withstand Ajax’s intricate passing spells.
Prediction for Ajax vs. Inter Milan
Home advantage and renewed confidence give Ajax the slight edge in a tight contest. Expect an end-to-end battle settled by a late set-piece finish from Weghorst, as Ajax secure a 2-1 win to announce their return to Champions League glory at home.
