Groningen vs RKC Waalwijk

FC Groningen aims to capitalize on their recent momentum as they host RKC Waalwijk at the Euroborg Stadium this Saturday afternoon in the Eredivisie. A win could propel Groningen into the top half of the league standings, while RKC seeks three points to lift themselves off the bottom of the table.

Groningen has had a commendable return to the top flight this season, amassing 35 points and sitting 11 points clear of the relegation zone. Despite a challenging April—facing defeats against Feyenoord, PSV, and Utrecht—they bounced back impressively with a 4-1 home victory over Heracles Almelo last weekend. Goals from Marco Rente, Jorg Schreuders, and Leandro Bacuna, along with an own goal by Brian De Keersmaecker, secured their ninth win of the campaign. This marks their most successful top-flight season since 2020–21, when they achieved 14 victories and finished seventh.

Under coach Dick Lukkien, Groningen has been formidable at home, losing only once in their last ten league matches at the Euroborg. They've also recorded six clean sheets during this period, including five consecutive shutouts around the New Year.

In contrast, RKC Waalwijk's 2024–25 Eredivisie campaign has been fraught with difficulties. With just 19 points from 30 games, they face the looming threat of relegation after five seasons in the top division. The club announced that head coach Henk Fraser will depart at the end of the season, but he remains focused on steering the team to safety.

RKC's struggles continued with a 4-0 home defeat to Utrecht last weekend, extending their winless streak to eight matches since early February. Their away form offers little solace, having failed to win in their last four road games and conceding at least two goals in each. Their sole away victory this season came against fellow strugglers Almere City.

As both teams prepare for this crucial encounter, Groningen seeks to solidify their mid-table position, while RKC fights to escape the relegation zone. The outcome at the Euroborg could significantly influence the trajectories of both clubs as the season approaches its conclusion.