As the Europa League group stage reaches its climax, Ajax host Lazio at the Johan Cruyff Arena on Thursday in a match that promises to be crucial for both teams' ambitions. With Lazio currently top of the group and Ajax trailing in their wake, this match will be crucial in securing a place in the knockout stages.

Lazio are unbeaten in the Europa League this season and sit top of their group with 13 points. Their impressive run has included victories over notable opponents, showing their strength and resilience under new coach Marco Baroni. However, their perfect run came to an end with a goalless draw against Ludogorets, but they remain firmly on course to qualify for the last 16.

Ajax, on the other hand, are in a more precarious position. They will need to regroup quickly after suffering a 2-0 defeat at the hands of Real Sociedad in their last Europa League outing. Despite this setback, Ajax have been in good form at home, winning their two previous group matches convincingly. They currently sit on 10 points, just three behind Lazio, and will need a strong performance to maintain their push for qualification.

Ajax's recent form has been mixed. They suffered a rare league defeat to AZ Alkmaar after a string of strong performances, including a draw against Utrecht. Their domestic form remains competitive, but inconsistency has crept into their game. Historically, Ajax have struggled against Italian sides at home, failing to win any of their last 12 meetings with Serie A sides.

Lazio, on the other hand, are riding high after back-to-back victories over Napoli, including an impressive cup win that showcased their attacking prowess. The Biancocelesti sit just three points clear at the top of Serie A and will be looking to carry that momentum into Europe.

Ajax will welcome back captain Jordan Henderson after he missed the previous match due to a hamstring issue. His experience in midfield will be vital for Ajax as they look to control the game against Lazio’s dynamic attack.

Devyne Rensch may also return from injury, but Sivert Mannsverk is ruled out due to fitness concerns, and Owen Wijndal will serve a suspension.The Ajax squad will miss out on the services of Gaston Avila, Amouriccho Van Axel-Dongen, and Benjamin Tahirovic.

Provedel is still in the Lazio squad despite having the flu. Even in the last round of Serie A against Napoli, he played with some symptoms. Baroni hopes that Romagnoli and Vecino can return against Inter Milan, so they may not take too many risks in this Europa League game.Luca Pellegrini is out because of injuries as well.

Injures and suspensions

Ajax

30 Gastón Ávila

5 Owen Wijndal-Suspension

2 Devyne Rensch-Doubt

16 Sivert Mannsverk

33 Benjamin Tahirovic

27 Amourricho Van Axel-Dongen

18 Davy Klaassen

Lazio

94 Ivan Provedel-Doubt

13 Alessio Romagnoli

5 Matías Vecino

3 Luca Pellegrini

Possible starting lineup

Ajax (4-3-3)

Pasveer (GK);Hato,Baas, Sutalo, Gaael; Taylor, Van den Boomen, Klassen; Akpom, Brobbey, Berghuis

Lazio (4-2-3-1)

Provedel (GK);Tavares, Gigot, Gila, Marusic, Rovella, Guendouzi; Pedro, Dia, Isaksen; Castellanos