In the upcoming Eredivisie clash, Heerenveen will host AZ Alkmaar at the Abe Lenstra Stadion this Sunday. This fixture, one of the highlights of round 13, holds significant importance for both teams.
Match Overview: Heerenveen vs. AZ Alkmaar
Heerenveen has struggled during recent encounters with AZ Alkmaar, losing by an aggregate score of 16-2 over three visits to Alkmaar. However, this weekend’s home advantage provides them with an opportunity to improve their record.
Recent Performance
Heerenveen’s recent home form has been strong. They have secured 14 points at home thus far, with only one loss in six matches, that against FC Twente. They have amassed eight points from their last four fixtures after a defeat, aiming to extend their unbeaten run at home to five matches.
On the other hand, AZ Alkmaar is coming off a heavy 5-1 defeat to PSV Eindhoven, marking their second loss of the season. Prior to that, they had enjoyed a four-match winning streak. As they approach this match, they seek to bounce back and close the four-point gap separating them from second-placed Feyenoord.
Team News
- Heerenveen: Levi Smans is nearing a return from injury, while Pawel Bochniewicz remains unavailable. Key players Dylan Vente and Jacob Trenskow have scored five and four goals, respectively, contributing significantly to the team’s offense.
- AZ Alkmaar: The team is dealing with several injury concerns, including Jordy Clasie and Seiya Maikuma. Centre-back Wouter Goes will serve a suspension due to accumulated yellow cards.
Possible Lineups
Here’s how the teams might line up:
| Heerenveen | AZ Alkmaar |
|---|---|
| Klaverboer | Zoet |
| Braude | Dijkstra |
| Kersten | Dekker |
| Willemsen | Penetra |
| Zagaritis | De Wit |
| Van Overeem | Smit |
| Brouwers | Boogaard |
| Trenskow | Patati |
| Vente | Mijnans |
| Rivera | Jensen |
| Sejk | Parrott |
Match Prediction
Considering the goals scored at Abe Lenstra Stadion this season—12 for and 11 against—both teams are likely to create chances. A score draw of 2-2 seems plausible, with each team seeking to capitalize on their offensive strengths while aiming to avoid further setbacks.
This match is crucial for both Heerenveen and AZ Alkmaar, as they strive for better standings in the Eredivisie.
