Two of Europe's most storied clubs, Dutch giants AFC Ajax and Scottish champions Celtic FC, are set to reignite their historic rivalry in a highly anticipated pre-season friendly. This exciting encounter is part of the inaugural Como Cup and is scheduled for today, Thursday, July 24, 2025, with kick-off at 7:30 PM CEST (8:30 PM EAT in Kenya). The Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia in Como, Italy, will be the venue for this clash.
For all the real-time updates, comprehensive match statistics, and reliable live-streaming options, make sure to keep score808 and livesports808 at your fingertips. These platforms are your essential companions for staying fully engaged with all the pre-season football action.
The Significance: Testing Grounds for New Seasons
This friendly offers a crucial test for both clubs as they fine-tune their preparations for the demanding 2025-26 season. It's a chance to build match fitness, integrate new tactical ideas, and assess player performances.
AFC Ajax is looking to restore its glory after a couple of disappointing seasons. Under new manager Johnny Heitinga, who took over from Sean Dyche, they are aiming for a strong start to the Eredivisie campaign. Ajax has had a busy pre-season, participating in the Como Cup. They are coming into this match on the back of a six-match unbeaten streak in friendlies, including a 2-1 victory over PAOK Thessaloniki FC. Their pre-season has included closed-doors matches and a training camp in Zeist, preparing them for the challenges ahead.
Celtic FC, the reigning Scottish champions, are also deep into their pre-season. Brendan Rodgers' side will be looking to build on their domestic dominance and make an impact in the UEFA Champions League. They've had a rigorous pre-season schedule, including matches against Queen's Park, Cork City, Estrela da Amadora, Sporting CP, and a significant 4-0 victory over Newcastle United at Celtic Park. This match against Ajax in the Como Cup is a key fixture in their Italian pre-season trip, which will also see them face either Como 1907 or Al Ahli depending on today's result.
Head-to-Head: A Rich History of European Clashes
Ajax and Celtic have a rich history of competitive encounters in UEFA competitions, particularly in the Champions League and Europa League.
Overall Competitive Record: In their competitive history, Ajax holds the edge with more wins, though many matches have been tightly contested.
Notable Past Meetings: Their most recent competitive clashes were in the Europa League group stage in 2015, where Ajax won one (2-1 away) and drew one (2-2 at home). Prior to that, they met in the Champions League group stage in 2013.
This history suggests a competitive and often tactical encounter, even in a friendly setting, as both clubs have a strong tradition and rivalry.
Key Players and Tactical Approaches
Both managers will use this friendly to rotate their squads, give valuable minutes to a large number of players, and experiment with tactical setups.
Ajax under Johnny Heitinga will likely aim for a possession-based, attacking style, characteristic of the club's philosophy. They will look to leverage their technical prowess in midfield and the sharpness of their attacking players. Heitinga will be keen to see how his team's fluidity and pressing game develop against a strong opponent.
Celtic under Brendan Rodgers will focus on their high-intensity, attacking football, aiming to control the midfield and create chances through their wide players and direct runs. They will also be testing their defensive solidity against a technically adept Ajax side. Players like Kyogo Furuhashi (if fit) and new signings will be keen to make an impression.
Given it's early in pre-season, frequent substitutions are anticipated as managers look to build match fitness across the squad and prevent injuries. The focus will be on performance and tactical implementation rather than solely on the final score.
Where to Watch: Club Channels and Online Platforms
Specific broadcast information for this pre-season friendly can sometimes be localized. However, here are the confirmed and likely options:
Celtic TV: Celtic's official club streaming service is confirmed to be providing a live stream for fans tuning in around the world (subscription fees may apply).
Ajax Official Channels: Ajax's official website or app may also provide live coverage or highlights, particularly for their international audience.
Ziggo Sport (Netherlands): Dutch broadcaster Ziggo Sport often carries Ajax's pre-season matches.
Regional Sports Networks: Check major sports broadcasters in Scotland for any local coverage.
For comprehensive real-time updates and additional streaming options, score808 and livesports808 are invaluable resources:
score808.fans: This platform is your ultimate destination for all the crucial match data and analysis. You'll find:
Live Score Updates: Get instant notifications for goals, cards, substitutions, and key events as they happen, ensuring you're always up-to-the-minute with the action from Como.
Detailed Match Statistics: Dive into comprehensive stats including ball possession percentages, shot counts, fouls, corners, and player-specific data, offering a deep analytical view of the game.
Confirmed Lineups and Formations: Stay informed with the official starting XIs and tactical setups as soon as they are released, providing crucial insights into each manager's game plan.
Pre-match Previews and Post-match Reports: Read expert analysis, match predictions, and detailed post-game summaries, offering context and analysis of the result.
livesports808.live: If you're looking to watch the match live, livesports808.live offers reliable streaming options that bring the excitement directly to your screen. They provide:
High-Quality Live Streams: Experience every moment of the game in clear, high-definition quality, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of this European friendly.
Reliable and Accessible Streaming: Enjoy seamless streaming across various devices, ensuring you don't miss a single tackle, pass, or goal, regardless of your location.
These platforms are designed to provide a rich and immersive experience, ensuring you stay connected to the game from kick-off to the final whistle.
The Countdown to Kick-Off
The pre-season friendly between Ajax and Celtic is a fascinating encounter between two clubs with rich European heritage. For Ajax, it's about building under a new manager and recapturing their attacking flair. For Celtic, it's about sharpening their edge for another tilt at domestic and European success. Expect a competitive and engaging contest as these European giants renew acquaintances in Italy.
Don't miss a moment of the action – tune into the available broadcasts, and keep score808 and livesports808 by your side for all the live updates and comprehensive coverage!
