Even in 13th place, AZ Alkmaar can still miss out on the play-offs, which only 24 clubs reach. For Jagiellonia Białystok, who are one point behind, the risk is even greater.
AZ Alkmaar
For that to happen, all the teams chasing them down to 26th place, including HŠK Zrinjski Mostar, would need to win. This is unlikely, but it cannot be ruled out, so AZ Alkmaar need at least a draw. If they push and take all three points, they will have a chance to move into the top eight and avoid having to play in the play-off round. The only thing holding AZ Alkmaar back is their goal difference, which is currently exactly zero.
Jagiellonia Białystok
Up to matchday five of the Conference League, Jagiellonia Białystok were unbeaten (two wins and two draws), but then lost 1:2 to Rayo Vallecano and dropped into mid-table, down to 13th place. In theory, they can finish anywhere between third and 27th. The former is obviously preferable. One of the main hopes for the club’s coaching staff is 17-year-old prodigy Oskar Pietuszewski, who has been a constant menace down the right side of opposing defences.
AZ Alkmaar vs Jagiellonia Białystok Prediction
In their last 10 matches at AFAS Stadion, AZ Alkmaar have lost only once, to Eredivisie leaders PSV Eindhoven (1:5), but there have been draws in which the hosts conceded heavily, such as the recent 2:2 against Go Ahead Eagles or the 3:3 with Feyenoord Rotterdam a few months ago. Because of this, we are prepared to back Jagiellonia Białystok with a small positive handicap.
