Sparta Rotterdam vs Ajax Amsterdam (Predictions, Preview, Picks, Tips, Odds)

Eredivisie round 1 match between Sparta Rotterdam and Ajax Amsterdam. Sparta is back after a couple of years absence in the Eredivisie, they will play their first game of the season at The Castle to welcome favourites Ajax. The team from Amsterdam played last Thursday in the Champions League qualification away at Paok in Greece, barely winning 2-1 to advance to the final round. Last season Ajax lost the championship by drawing 1-1 at De Graafschap in the final round after leading 1-0 and missing many chances. This season they will be looking for more success in both the Eredivisie and Europe. I think it will be a difficult first match to start with and they will need to be sharp to take home all 3 points, they might be able to do so but more in the same fashion like they have done away at Paok and not by playing good football. - Sparta had a 15-2-1 home record last season in the Jupiler League with a 52:20 home goal difference. Their only home loss came in their last home game of the season when they already were assured of winning the league. - In the past seven years the champion of the Jupiler League started the season with just 1 loss in the next Eredivisie season (W2, D4, L1). - Ajax played really poor in their Champions League game away at PAOK 3 days ago winning 1-2, they looked very weak and the Greek side created most chances and deserved to win. It's really important for Ajax to qualify for the Champions League, way more important than winning this opening game of the season. The hosts had more rest compared to the visitors to prepare for this week 1 clash. - Ajax striker Arek Milik was sold to Napoli earlier this month, he finished 3rd on the topscorer ranking last season with 21 goals and 7 assists. He will be missed and now goals will need to come from other players, that's easier said than done in my opinion. - Tickets were sold out weeks ago, and the home side will have plenty of support from their fans in what will be their first match on the highest level since years. The +1.5 handicap will be avaliable at odds of 1.48, Sparta was the best team last season in the Jupiler League and had a great home record. Ajax played really poor in their most recent games and I think they will have difficulties to dominate and win by more than a single goal. My prediction is a draw of Ajax by 1 in this week 1 fixture.