Burnley will travel to Amsterdam to face AFC Ajax in a pre-season friendly on Sunday 26 July. The kick-off at the Johan Cruijff ArenA is set for 2:00 pm Central European Time, with Burnley supporters able to attend in person.
What does this pre-season friendly mean for AFC Ajax?
The fixture is a key step in Ajax’s preparation for the 2026/27 season, which begins with a 23-point gap to leaders PSV Eindhoven. With 51 points from 30 games in the 2025 campaign (13 wins, 12 draws, 5 losses) and a recent run of WLDWL, Erik ten Hag’s side shows stability but faces fierce competition. Kasper Dolberg remains sidelined, adding pressure to an attack that scored 57 goals and conceded 37 (+20 goal difference) last term.
Why is this match important for Burnley?
For Burnley, the trip to Amsterdam is their fourth away pre-season game, following fixtures against FC Cincinnati, Columbus Crew, and Real Salt Lake. The Clarets seek European-level experience ahead of their domestic campaign, while Ajax gets a chance to integrate new players and test tactical options. The match fits into a packed schedule that also includes a home game against RCD Espanyol on 29 July at 7:45 pm BST.
When and where will the match take place?
The game will be played at the Johan Cruijff ArenA, Ajax’s home ground. Gates open at 1:30 pm CET, with kick-off at 2:00 pm. Burnley fans can attend, with ticket details to be announced shortly. The match is part of Burnley’s pre-season build-up, priced from £15 for the home game against Espanyol.
What’s next for AFC Ajax?
With a 23-point title deficit and Dolberg out, Ajax must quickly clarify their squad plans. The friendly against Burnley offers a first look at progress under the new staff, as the club eyes consolidation of last season’s fifth-place finish in the Eredivisie. The side scored 57 goals and conceded 37 (+20) in 2025, but recent form has been inconsistent. The Burnley clash is both a test of strength and a chance to showcase new talent ahead of the new campaign.
