Youthful Ajax may be made to work hard by Groningen

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Excelsior v Feyenoord11.30am
Eredivisie champions Feyenoord were quickly out of the blocks last term, winning their opening nine matches, and they should have little trouble seeing off their Rotterdam rivals Excelsior in their first away game of the campaign.

However, given the increased intensity of a city derby, it could be worth backing Excelsior to notch a consolation. The hosts have netted in nine of their last ten home games, while Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s side have conceded in five of their last six on their travels.

Recommendation
Feyenoord to win & both teams to score
1pt 9-5 general

Bet on this game at Soccerbase.com

Key stat
Feyenoord have lost only one of their last 11 clashes with Excelsior.

Ajax v Groningen1.30pm

Ajax’s youthful bunch have had a troubled start to the campaign and they may take time to fight off visiting Groningen.

The Amsterdam outfit have had their feathers ruffled by a number of key departures - Davy Klaassen and Jairo Riedewald have left for the Premier League - and defeat at Heracles in their season opener followed by a Europa League upset at home to Rosenborg make them a risky proposition.

Recommendation
Groningen +2 goals on handicap
1pt 11-10 bet365

Bet on this game at Soccerbase.com

Key stat
Ajax are winless in six matches.