AZ Alkmaar – Groningen

Match analysis

AZ Alkmaar host a Groningen side that sits ninth in the table, and the gap between them is already stark – the hosts sit on 16 points from five wins and a draw, while the visitors have managed only eight points from two victories, two draws and two defeats. Alkmaar’s attack has been prolific, having scored 17 goals and conceded just six, whereas Groningen’s record is more balanced at 12 for and 13 against. Both teams enter the match with contrasting recent form; AZ have not dropped a point in six games, while Groningen have split their last four fixtures evenly. The clash offers Groningen a chance to close the gap on the mid‑table, but AZ will look to cement their position in the top two and stretch their lead over the chasing pack.