Chelsea will have another chance to build on their impressive run when they face Ajax in the Champions League at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday night.
Enzo Maresca’s side have rediscovered consistency after a slow start to the season and will be confident of extending their winning streak against the Dutch outfit.
The Blues come into the tie off the back of three straight wins in all competitions, including a convincing 3-0 victory away to Nottingham Forest last weekend.
That result eased the pressure on Maresca, who had faced brief questions over his position last month, and reaffirmed Chelsea’s growing rhythm under him.
Their Champions League campaign also seems to be back on track after a 1-0 win over Benfica in their last group game.
That match was decided by a Richard Rios own goal, but Chelsea’s defensive control and intensity reflected a side finding its identity again.
Chelsea now have the opportunity to climb the standings in what should be a manageable home fixture.
They are unbeaten in their last 15 group or league-phase games at Stamford Bridge, a run stretching back to 2020, and have lost just two in their last 60 European home matches overall.
By contrast, Ajax arrive in London in disarray. Johnny Heitinga’s team have lost both of their Champions League fixtures against Inter Milan and Marseille this season.
They are second from bottom in the expanded 36-team table with no goals scored and six conceded. Their domestic form offers little encouragement.
Ajax were beaten 2-0 by AZ Alkmaar at the weekend, leaving them nine points off the top of the Eredivisie and with just one win from their last six matches.
The pressure is mounting on Heitinga, with his side conceding at least twice in each of their last six outings.
The match presents Chelsea with an ideal chance to strengthen their Champions League position while continuing to build confidence across competitions.
Maresca’s tactical discipline and squad depth are beginning to show results, and victory over Ajax would underline their steady return to Champions League relevance.
The Dutch visitors will need a major response to avoid another punishing night in London, but Chelsea will expect nothing less than three points and a further statement of progress.
