AZ Alkmaar: Back to Winning Ways and the Battle for the Top
AZ Alkmaar enters this match with a clear goal – to continue their good results and stay in the race for the Champions League spots. After a streak of five consecutive wins at the end of 2024, the team experienced a slight dip in form in January, earning only two points in three matches. Draws against PSV (2-2) and Utrecht (0-0) exposed some weaknesses in attack, while the 2-1 defeat against Sparta Rotterdam further shook the squad.
However, AZ quickly bounced back with an important 2-0 victory over Willem II, thanks to goals from Troy Parrott and Sven Mijnans. This triumph was crucial for restoring confidence ahead of the intense battle at the top of the Eredivisie. Additionally, the team secured a place in the KNVB Cup semifinals by eliminating Quick Boys with a 3-1 win during the week.
They currently sit in fourth place with 38 points, five points behind third-placed Utrecht, while Feyenoord and Twente are close behind. AZ knows they cannot afford any more slip-ups, and a full effort is expected against PEC Zwolle.
Key Players:
Troy Parrott – The team’s top scorer with 15 goals this season (11 in the Eredivisie). His finishing ability will be crucial for AZ’s success.
Sven Mijnans – A creative force in midfield, capable of making a difference in attack.
Jordy Clasie – An experienced midfielder who provides stability and control in the center of the pitch.
PEC Zwolle: Fighting for Survival with Improved Form
On the other side, PEC Zwolle arrives at the AFAS Stadion in good form after a series of solid results. The team is in 12th place with 24 points, four points above the relegation playoff zone and ten points clear of direct relegation. After a tough first half of the season, Zwolle has started 2024 with improved performances and results.
A major boost for the team came with a sensational 3-1 victory over PSV, where Filip Krastev and Dilan Vente shined. They followed that up with a dominant 4-1 win over Fortuna Sittard and an exciting 3-3 draw against Utrecht. This three-match unbeaten streak has lifted the team’s morale and strengthened their optimism in the fight for survival.
Key Players:
Dylan Vente – A striker in excellent form, scoring five goals in his last three matches, bringing his season tally to nine league goals.
Filip Krastev – A winger with three goals and three assists in recent matches, crucial for Zwolle’s attacking creativity.
Davy van den Berg – Has stabilized Zwolle’s midfield while also contributing effectively in attack.
Betting Tips
A dynamic clash is expected between a team aiming for the Champions League and a side fighting for survival. AZ Alkmaar is certainly the favorite at home, but PEC Zwolle has proven they can surprise, as seen in their match against PSV.
Potential betting options:
- AZ Alkmaar to win & Over 2 goals in the match (AZ has scored at least two goals in each of their last five wins).
- Troy Parrott to score (AZ’s top scorer is in excellent form).
- Both teams to score (BTTS) (Zwolle has scored 10 goals in their last three matches but also conceded five).
AZ Alkmaar enters the match as the favorite, but PEC Zwolle should not be underestimated, as they have already shown they can compete with the top teams.
