Former Ajax attacker Johan Cruyff believes that his former club can beat Manchester City when the pair clash in the Champions League on Tuesday.

The Dutch outfit recorded a 3-1 win over City two weeks ago and therefore they travel to Manchester full of confidence ahead of the key encounter.

"It's simple, you play to win. In the event of a draw, you still risk losing and it will be very difficult regardless," the 65-year-old told De Telegraaf.

"I think it is an advantage that Ajax are playing Manchester City now. [City] must take the initiative."

Defeat for City would all but eliminate from the group stages of the competition for the second consecutive season.