In a thrilling encounter, AZ Alkmaar is set to take on Heracles on Thursday night in the Eredivisie.
Match Preview
AZ Alkmaar, currently sitting in second position, aims to secure their sixth consecutive victory this season.
On the other hand, Heracles, with a solid start to the campaign, finds themselves in mid-table.
AZ Alkmaar has positioned themselves as strong title contenders after giving tough competition to the top three teams last season.
Their form this season is evident with five consecutive wins, scoring a total of 15 goals and conceding only two.
In their most recent match, they defeated an undefeated PEC Zwolle side with a convincing 3-0 scoreline on away territory.
Vangelis Pavlidis has been exceptional with seven goals in the league, but AZ Alkmaar suffered a setback with a 4-3 defeat against Zrinjski Mostar in the Europa Conference League.
While AZ Alkmaar strives for consistency, Heracles has made a promising start to the season following their promotion from the second tier.
Despite losses against Ajax and FC Utrecht, victories over NEC Nijmegen and Excelsior have given them some breathing space in the league.
In their previous match, they settled for a 2-2 draw against winless FC Volendam after surrendering a 2-0 lead in the final 20 minutes.
However, Heracles is showing signs of progress and aims to increase their four-point lead over the relegation zone.
Team News:
In view of the demanding schedule ahead, AZ Alkmaar’s manager Pascal Jansen may opt to rotate some players.
Jens Odgaard and Ibrahim Sadiq are likely to be included in the starting lineup if changes are made.
Bruno Martins Indi, returning from injury, will be among the substitutes.
Heracles, barring any fitness concerns, could field the same starting XI that was leading 2-1 before making substitutions in their previous match.
Mario Engels is a potential candidate for a midfield or attacking role, while Mohamed Sankoh may make way.
Predicted Lineups:
AZ Alkmaar:
Ryan;
Sugawara, Bazoer, Penetra, Wolfe;
Clasie, Mijnans;
Lahdo, De Wit, Brederode;
Pavlidis
Heracles:
Brouwer;
Bakboord, Bultman, Hoogma, Willems;
Keersmaecker, Bruns, Ouahim;
Limbombe, Engels, Hansson
Prediction:
We predict a dominant performance from AZ Alkmaar, resulting in a comfortable 3-0 victory over Heracles.
While Heracles has shown promise with two wins this season, AZ Alkmaar’s form and credentials make them favorites to secure the win and continue their title push.
