Heracles Almelo is currently facing uncertainty about their place in the upcoming season’s Eredivisie. After losing a derby match against FC Twente last weekend, the team from Almelo finds themselves in a challenging position. Captain Justin Hoogma expressed his frustration, stating that they deserved at least a point from the match. However, the team now has an opportunity to turn things around as they return home to play on Wednesday.
A Venue of Success
Heracles Almelo will be playing at a venue where they have earned their last eight Eredivisie points. This home advantage should provide them with some inspiration as they face an in-form opponent. It is worth noting that Heracles has won two of their last three home games against AZ Alkmaar, which should boost their confidence.
A Defensive Stability
While Heracles Almelo may not be considered an attacking force, with an average of just 1.2 goals per game, their defending has been much more stable in the second half of the season. In their last seven league matches, only Feyenoord was able to score three goals against them. However, their goals conceded count remains the third-highest in the league, after Volendam and Excelsior.
AZ Alkmaar, on the other hand, has been performing well, recording their fifth win in their last six matches. Goalkeeper Mat Ryan has also been in excellent form, securing his fourth clean sheet in his last five appearances for the team. Top scorer Vangelis Pavlidis has been impressive, extending his season total to 24 league goals and reclaiming the top scorer title. Additionally, midfielder Dani de Wit has been productive, scoring in three consecutive games.
The Battle for Champions League Qualification
Maarten Martens’ team is no longer likely to relinquish fourth place in the league. However, they will be aiming to knock FC Twente out of third place and secure a spot in the Champions League. The difference between the two teams is currently four points, and AZ Alkmaar has a significantly better goal difference.
FC Twente fans may find themselves torn between self-interest and wanting to see their rivals go down. The outcome of this match will have implications for both teams’ aspirations for the upcoming season.
Players to Watch
Two players to keep an eye on during this match are Jizz Hornkamp from Heracles Almelo and Yukinari Sugawara from AZ Alkmaar. Hornkamp has been in excellent form, scoring seven goals in his last ten appearances for Heracles. On the other hand, right back Sugawara has been making an impact with three goals and two assists in his last four matches for AZ.
Consistency and Goal Scoring
It is interesting to note that in the last 18 head-to-head matches between the two teams, AZ Alkmaar has never trailed at halftime. Additionally, they have managed to score at least one goal in all 18 of those matches. This consistency in performance will surely be a factor in the upcoming game.
In conclusion, Heracles Almelo faces uncertainty about their place in the Eredivisie, but they have an opportunity to turn things around as they play at home. AZ Alkmaar, on the other hand, is in good form and will be looking to secure their place in the Champions League. The match promises to be an exciting battle between two competitive teams.