Telstar will host AZ Alkmaar in Velsen-Zuid on Sunday in a crucial Eredivisie clash. The newly-promoted team is battling to avoid relegation while AZ Alkmaar aims for European qualification. Currently, just two points separate Telstar from the drop zone, highlighting the stakes for both sides.
Match Preview
Returning to the top flight after 48 years, Telstar has faced a challenging season. Despite this, they have shown remarkable resilience, securing one defeat in their last six matches across all competitions. In their previous outing, they had a two-goal lead against Excelsior but ended the match with a 2-2 draw. This season, Telstar has become known for their inability to secure wins, with only one victory at home this year.
Key player Jeff Hardeveld has been integral to Telstar’s offensive efforts, contributing to seven goals. His performance will be crucial as the team struggles to find consistent results.
AZ Alkmaar’s European Aspirations
AZ Alkmaar currently sits in seventh place, just five points behind Ajax in the race for European spots. However, their recent form has been inconsistent, with only two wins in the last eight Eredivisie matches. Their last game ended in a 1-1 draw against Excelsior, where forward Troy Parrott made a significant impact, bringing his total to 20 goals this season across all competitions.
AZ Alkmaar won their last encounter with Telstar, securing a 2-1 victory in October. Their historical performance also favors them, with six wins in their last seven meetings against Telstar.
Recent Form
- Telstar Eredivisie form: LDDWLD
- Telstar form (all competitions): DWWLWD
- AZ Alkmaar Eredivisie form: LDLWLD
- AZ Alkmaar form (all competitions): DLWWLD
Team News
For Telstar, Cedric Hatenboer returns after serving a suspension from his debut match. Milan Zonneveld has been gaining momentum, contributing to four goals in his last six outings.
AZ Alkmaar faces several injuries, with Denso Kasius and Jordy Clasie out due to ankle injuries. Mexx Meerdink is also sidelined with a groin issue, while captain Sven Mijnans recently suffered a hamstring injury, leaving a gap in the squad.
Potential Lineups
| Telstar | AZ Alkmaar |
|---|---|
| Koeman | Owusu-Oduro |
| Ogidi, Offerhaus, Bakker | De Wit, Goes, Penetra, Chavez |
| Noslin, Rossen, Owusu, Hardeveld | Koopmeiners, Smit, Sin |
| Van de Kamp, Brouwer, Zonneveld | Patati, Hornkamp, Parrott |
In conclusion, while Telstar’s recent draws indicate their competitive spirit, AZ Alkmaar’s overall quality and goal-scoring ability could secure them a narrow victory, with a predicted score of 2-1 in favor of the visitors. This match promises to be tightly contested, with both teams vying for vital points in their respective battles.
