Ajax can keep returning to Sparta's box after its first attack is cleared. Sparta have a direct outlet through their midfield suppliers to Zonneveld. Barcelona and Madrid bring another contest between a strong ball recovery and an immediate counter. The first exit and the second delivery should shape both matches.
Against Sparta, Ajax can work through Klaassen and Rosa, then bring Arokodare or Ouazane into aerial and left side attacks. Sparta's Toornstra, Babadi and Zonneveld all played the latest match and have turned direct passes into box chances; Ajax's replacement attack also played against Atalanta. Sparta have allowed repeat entries, while Ajax recently conceded chances to Groningen. I expect both teams to keep creating after the opening goal. That's why I'm backing goals in Sparta against Ajax.
Barcelona can recover and reach Yamal on the right, while Madrid can attack a loose first pass through Güler, Bellingham, Diomandé and Mbappé. Those Madrid attacking replacements have recent goal contributions despite Vinícius and Rodrygo being out, and Barcelona created again under pressure at PSG. Courtois is newly absent, changing the goalkeeping end of a game with live attacks in both directions. I expect the side behind to reopen space and bring another wave of box service. That's why I'm backing goals in Barcelona against Real Madrid.
