Ajax vs. Inter: Cristian Chivu's Early Test in Amsterdam
Inter, fresh off their 2024-25 Champions League finals appearance, begins their league phase campaign against Ajax in Amsterdam. The match is not only the first of the European season for the Nerazzurri but also potentially pivotal for coach Cristian Chivu, facing his former team where his playing career began.
Chivu Under Pressure After Serie A Setbacks
Chivu, who previously played for AS Roma and Inter (winning the 2010 Champions League), has faced immediate criticism after consecutive Serie A defeats: a home loss against Udinese and a 4-3 thriller against Juventus at the Allianz Stadium. This match against Ajax, now coached by John Heitinga, Arne Slot's former assistant, is crucial for his short-term future.
Replacing Simone Inzaghi before the Club World Cup, Chivu is already under scrutiny after just three Serie A matches. The outcome of the Ajax game will significantly impact the perception of his managerial start at Inter, despite the club's public support following the weekend's loss.
Lautaro Martinez Doubtful Starter
Adding to Inter's challenges, captain Lautaro Martinez missed Tuesday's training session and is expected to begin the match on the bench. This absence further complicates Chivu's tactical options against a determined Ajax side.
Match Details and How to Watch
Here are the key details for the upcoming Champions League clash:
- Date: Wednesday, Sep. 17
- Time: 3 p.m. ET
- Location: Amsterdam ArenA -- Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Live stream: Paramount+
- Odds: Ajax +313; Draw +280; Inter -125
Sommer's Position Secured Despite Criticism
Goalkeeper Yann Sommer faced criticism after the Juventus defeat, with some blaming him for conceded goals. However, Chivu has publicly supported the Swiss international, confirming that he will start against Ajax ahead of backup Josep Martinez. Chivu emphasized the importance of supporting players during difficult times and trusts Sommer's experience.
"I don't think it's right to throw stones at Sommer. He's an important player...I don't feel like changing Sommer just because the fans are asking for it...a player in difficulty needs to be helped." - Cristian Chivu
Predicted Lineups
Here's how both teams are expected to line up for the match:
Ajax XI: Vitezslav Jaros; Anton Gaaei, Ko Itakura, Youri Baas, Owen Wijndal; Davy Klaassen, Kenneth Taylor; Youri Regeer, Steven Berghuis, Wout Weghorst; Mika Godts.
Inter XI: Yann Sommer; Manuel Akanji, Stefan de Vrij, Alessandro Bastoni; Denzel Dumfries, Nicolo Barella, Hakan Calhanoglu, Petar Sucic, Federico Dimarco; Marcus Thuram, Yann Bonny.
Prediction
Considering Inter's recent struggles and the challenge of playing away at the Amsterdam ArenA, a draw seems a likely outcome. Prediction: Ajax 1, Inter 1.
How to Watch Champions League League Phase
The opening round of league phase fixtures are available to watch on Paramount+, with select additional coverage on CBS Sports Network and CBS Sports Golazo Network. Pre-match coverage starts at 12 p.m. ET on CBS Sports Network each day before select matches air at 12:45 p.m. ET and 3 p.m. ET. The Golazo Show will be free on CBS Sports Golazo Network for Matchday 1, while coverage concludes on CBS Sports Golazo Network with new editions of The Champions Club, which will be simulcast on YouTube, and Scoreline.
Thuram Surprised by Martinez Absence in Training
Video footage has emerged showing Marcus Thuram's surprise at Lautaro Martinez's absence from Tuesday's training session. Inter are preparing to face Ajax in the Champions League. Martinez worked individually as a precaution due to slight back pain following the Juventus match.
Despite the precautionary measures, Martinez is still in contention to start against Ajax. Thuram's reaction, captured in the video, highlights the close relationship between the two strikers and Martinez's importance to the team.
See the video below:
Watch: Thuram asks ‘where’s Lautaro’ as Inter prepare for Ajax
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