UEFA Champions League 2018-19: 3 Players who can affect the outcome of Real Madrid vs Ajax tie

UEFA Champions League is back this week and Real Madrid will face Ajax at the Johan Cruyff Arena tonight. Real Madrid looks rejuvenated under the guidance of Santiago Solari and will look to win over a weakened Ajax.

It is crystal clear that Los Blancos are a different side than they were under Julen Lopetegui, who was sacked in December. They have climbed their way back into the 2nd spot in LaLiga and will look to continue their good form in the Champions League. Los Blancos' latest victory over arch-rivals Atletico Madrid is a testament to their improvement.

On the other hand, Ajax are second in the Dutch league and lost two out of their last three games, including a heavy 6-2 defeat against Feyenoord. Ajax have lost their last six games in European competition against Real Madrid but they are one of the five teams to stay unbeaten in the group stages of Champions League.

Without further ado, let us take a glimpse at three players who can change the tie the complexion of the tie with their performance.

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#1 Karim Benzema

FC Barcelona v Real Madrid - Copa del Rey Semi Final

Arguably, Karim Benzema is the most in-form player for Los Blancos right now. It is no wonder that his brilliance coincided with Real Madrid's recent good run of form. He has scored 17 goals in all competitions so far and provided 4 assists for the Los Blancos this season.

There is no doubt that Karim Benzema can trouble any defense with his caliber. Benzema's knack of finding spaces while dropping deep and linking up with his teammates in the final third is one of his most underrated traits. His goal scoring prowess is back at it's best and only makes him the most dangerous threat on the pitch.

Benzema's superb goalscoring run in this season will be a major cause of concern for Ajax. Even without his goal scoring, he can dismantle defenses which his hold up play and brilliant runs into the box.

#2 Frenkie De Jong

Ajax v FC Bayern Muenchen - UEFA Champions League Group E

Frenkie De Jong, the 21-year-old Barcelona bound Dutch midfielder, garnered wide interest due to his sensational performances and there is little doubt that the Ajax Prodigy will be one of the players to watch out for.

It is rare for a player of his age to show immaculate control and maturity on the ball but De Jong is already touted to be the next big thing in Europe. Despite being a central midfielder, he has 3 goals to his name for Ajax in the Dutch League and his performances depict why FC Barcelona were desperate to sign him.

Frenkie De Jong can shape the tie with his ability to dominate midfield and pick out teammates by creating space. A product of the famed Ajax Academy, which is one of the finest in the world, Real Madrid rearguard and midfielders will be wary of the threat of De Jong.

#3 Vinicius Junior

Club Atletico de Madrid v Real Madrid CF - La Liga

It is rare for a player to lead Los Blancos' offense at his age but Vinicius Junior has managed to be the spark Real Madrid needed to perform better offensively. Even at 18, he is challenging some of the best defenders in the world fearlessly as a relative unknown.

In five Copa del Rey appearances this season, Vinicius Junior has racked up two goals and two more in his six LaLiga starts. There is no doubt that Vinicius played a huge role in Real Madrid's recent turnaround and deservedly, gained the trust of Santiago Solari.

Despite his flaws, Vinicius' pace, energy, and relentlessness on the left flank helped Real Madrid find some success in the final third. Moreover, his combination with Karim Benzema upfront is proving to be deadly for opposition defenders. He will surely be one of the players to watch out for and Ajax will be aware of the threat of 18-year-old Brazilian.