Alkmaar vs Groningen

AZ Alkmaar will welcome Groningen to the AFAS Stadion this Sunday in a match that, for the hosts, carries little significance in terms of their league position. Having already fallen out of contention for a top-four finish in the Eredivisie, AZ now find themselves with nothing left to fight for in the remaining fixtures of the season. Their hopes of securing direct European qualification have evaporated, leaving them to focus solely on the upcoming playoffs, where they have already secured a home advantage for the semi-finals. Meanwhile, Groningen arrive in Alkmaar embroiled in a tense battle to secure their place in the European qualification playoffs, with several clubs still in contention for the final available spots. The visitors know that every point matters at this stage of the season, especially with a daunting fixture against Ajax still looming on their schedule.

Historically, AZ Alkmaar have been considered one of the Eredivisie’s most consistent sides, frequently finishing in the top four and securing European football with relative ease. However, this season has been far from straightforward for Maarten Martens’ side. A combination of inconsistent performances, defensive vulnerabilities, and a lack of cutting edge in crucial matches has left them languishing outside the Champions League and Europa League qualification spots. With just three games remaining, they trail fourth-placed Feyenoord by a staggering 12 points, mathematically confirming their inability to break into the top tier of Dutch football this campaign. Their recent 3-0 victory over KNVB Beker winners Go Ahead Eagles provided a brief moment of respite, but it was not enough to erase the damage caused by a seven-game winless streak that preceded it. That dismal run saw them drop valuable points against mid-table and lower-half opposition, ultimately costing them any realistic chance of securing automatic European qualification.

For AZ, the remainder of the season is now about preparation and pride. With their place in the European playoffs already secured, Martens may use these final matches to experiment with tactics, rotate his squad, and give younger players valuable first-team experience. However, one area that will undoubtedly concern him is their underwhelming home form. Winning just seven of their 15 league matches at the AFAS Stadion this season is a far cry from the fortress-like reputation they have cultivated in previous years. If they are to have any hope of progressing through the playoffs and securing a European spot via that route, improving their performances in front of their own supporters will be essential.

On the other side, Groningen’s situation is far more precarious—and far more urgent. The Pride of the North are locked in a fierce battle with several other clubs for a place in the European qualification playoffs, where a chance to secure continental football still awaits. Under the guidance of Dick Lukkien, they have hit form at just the right time, dismantling Heracles 4-1 before thrashing RKC Waalwijk 6-1 in their last two outings. These emphatic victories have injected much-needed momentum into their campaign, propelling them into the final playoff spot. However, the race remains incredibly tight, with only three points separating them from the chasing pack. Every remaining fixture is now a must-win or must-not-lose encounter, depending on how results elsewhere unfold.

Groningen’s biggest challenge, however, has been their dismal away record. With only two victories from 15 league matches on the road this season, they have struggled to replicate their home form when traveling. This makes their trip to Alkmaar all the more daunting, especially against an AZ side that, despite their own struggles, still possesses considerable quality. Furthermore, with a home match against Ajax still to come, Groningen know that dropping points in this fixture could prove disastrous. A positive result here would not only strengthen their grip on a playoff place but also provide a psychological boost ahead of their final two matches.

Tactically, this match presents an intriguing battle. AZ, with little left to play for in the league, may adopt a more relaxed approach, potentially leaving gaps for Groningen to exploit. However, Martens will be keen to ensure his side does not end the season on a low, as poor performances in these final games could carry over into the playoffs. Groningen, meanwhile, will likely approach the game with a mix of caution and aggression, knowing that a defeat could see them slip out of the playoff places entirely. Lukkien may set his team up to absorb pressure and hit AZ on the counter, utilizing the pace and creativity of their attacking players to exploit any defensive lapses.

Key individual battles could also shape the outcome of this fixture. AZ’s midfield metronome, likely tasked with dictating the tempo, will need to be at his best to break down Groningen’s defensive structure. Meanwhile, Groningen’s forwards, full of confidence after their recent goal-laden performances, will look to test an AZ backline that has looked vulnerable at times this season. The battle between Groningen’s in-form attackers and AZ’s defenders could be the decisive factor in determining where the points end up.

In terms of historical context, AZ have generally had the upper hand in this fixture, particularly at home. However, Groningen’s recent resurgence means they will not be short of belief heading into this clash. If they can overcome their travel sickness and produce a performance similar to their last two outings, they could very well leave Alkmaar with a crucial result. Conversely, if AZ play with the freedom of a team unburdened by pressure, they could easily put on a show for their fans, ending Groningen’s playoff hopes in the process.

Ultimately, this match represents two teams at very different stages of their season. For AZ, it is about fine-tuning their preparations for the playoffs and ending the league campaign on a high note. For Groningen, it is about keeping their European dreams alive in what has become a nail-biting race for the final playoff spot. The contrast in motivations could lead to an open, entertaining encounter, with both sides having reasons to attack. Whether Groningen can defy their poor away form or AZ can capitalize on their superior quality remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—this fixture promises intrigue, drama, and potentially season-defining consequences for the visitors.