Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Eredivisie match.
The regular Eredivisie season has concluded in the Netherlands, but the battle for European qualification continues. In the play-offs for a place in the UEFA Europa Conference League, AZ Alkmaar host Heracles Almelo. For the home side, it is a chance to salvage the campaign, while the visitors owe their unexpected opportunity to Go Ahead Eagles, who secured a European spot by winning the domestic cup.
AZ Alkmaar
AZ Alkmaar finished fifth in the league and found form late in the season, going on a five-match unbeaten run. During that stretch, the team scored 11 goals and conceded just four. They wrapped up the Eredivisie campaign with a goal difference of +21. The standout performer has been forward Troy Parrott, who ended up among the league's top three scorers. AZ Alkmaar also have a dominant head-to-head record, especially at home — Heracles Almelo have failed to win on their last six trips to Alkmaar.
Heracles Almelo
Heracles Almelo had an inconsistent finish to the regular season, losing four of their last eight matches. The main issue for the squad is their defensive fragility — they conceded 57 goals in Eredivisie play, the fifth-worst tally in the division. The injury to goalkeeper Andries Noppert further weakens their prospects, with Mickey van der Hart set to deputise between the posts. Heracles Almelo still remember their last away outing against AZ Alkmaar, a calamitous 1:9 defeat.
AZ Alkmaar vs Heracles Almelo Prediction
AZ Alkmaar clearly outmatch their opponents in all key areas. Backed by their home crowd, the team are expected to put immediate pressure on the vulnerable Heracles Almelo defence. AZ Alkmaar should win and score at least twice.
