Ajax will be looking to end a poor Champions League run which has seen them win just one of their last ten games in the competition.
The host an Arsenal team looking out of sorts and missing several of their most influential players.
Arsenal are without Dennis Bergkamp, Thierry Henry and Gilberto, while Jens Lehmann and Robin van Persie are suspended.
Ajax coach Danny Blind has injury concerns of his own, though, with Mauro Rosales joining Nigel de Jong and Wesley Sneijder on the sidelines.
“It’s our second match in the Champions League, and the first home game, so it’s important we don’t lose,” said coach Danny Blind.
“But Arsenal are a good team with a large squad of quality players, and although several are doubtful we have the same situation. Having said that, Henry is a very good player and Arsenal will miss him.”
Arsenal coach Arsene Wenger has only one fit striker available tonight so much will depend on Jose Antonio Reyes, who along with Fredrik Ljungberg will spearhead the attack.
Despite the lack of strikers, the Arsenal manager is targeting victory.
“It’s important to go into the game with a positive attitute,” he said. “We’re not used to going out there and trying for anything but a win.”
Wenger may field their own Amsterdam-born youngster in the form of Quincy Owusu-Abeyie – should Pirès fail in his fitness bid.
“I will have a chat with Pirès and see how he feels,” said Wenger.
“But if he isn’t fit then it will be Quincy – he’s a very talented young player.”
