Photo by Eric Verhoeven/Soccrates/Getty Images

Ajax vs. Shelbourne Lineups, Preview

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Farah Ben Gamra | Last updated Aug 6, 2026 12:30 PM ET

Ajax host Shelbourne at the Johan Cruijff ArenA on Thursday in the first leg of their UEFA Conference League third qualifying round tie. The Dutch giants head into the match full of confidence after winning each of their five pre-season games and Shelbourne face one of the biggest nights in the club's recent history as they look to keep their European dream alive.

Ajax are aiming to complete their rebuild after narrowly securing European qualification last season. Under new head coach Míchel and sporting director Jordi Cruyff, the four-time European champions have enjoyed a perfect pre-season and will be expected to take control of the tie before next week's second leg in Dublin.

Shelbourne, meanwhile, continue an unexpected European adventure. The League of Ireland team reached this stage by eliminating Estonian champions Nõmme Kalju and now face the biggest challenge of their campaign.

The winner over the two legs will advance to the UEFA Conference League play-off round, where either FC Noah or FC Sion awaits for a place in the league phase.

5 August 2026; Shelbourne players during their training session at Johan Cruyff Arena in Amsterdam, Netherlands. (Photo By Seb Daly/Sportsfile via Getty Images)

Predicted Ajax Lineup

Paes
Gaaei, Wijndal, Regeer, Dolberg
Godst, Gloukh, Blind
Klaasen, Berghuis, Bouwman

UEFA cleared summer signings Marc-André ter Stegen, Julian Brandt, and Tolu Arokodare to feature in the tie.

There are still a couple of fitness concerns. Kasper Dolberg remains a doubt after missing recent action, and Ahmetcan Kaplan is also struggling with injury.