As AZ Alkmaar hosts Heerenveen at the AFAS Stadion on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at 16:45 GMT+0, the stage is set for a pivotal Eredivisie playoff confrontation. Both sides are fighting for a berth in the Eredivisie playoffs, which gives an opportunity to qualify for the Europa Conference League, under referee M. Nagtegaal supervising the game.
Having an undefeated record in their last four regular season games, AZ Alkmaar, ending fifth with 57 points, are favoured at home. Aim to take advantage of their momentum and challenge the odds in this high-stakes match at the 19,478-capacity AFAS Stadion, securing ninth place with a stunning final-day victory.
Current Eredivisie Standings for AZ Alkmaar vs Heerenveen, May 22, 2025
AZ Alkmaar and Heerenveen square off with an opportunity to guarantee a Europa Conference League qualifying place as the Eredivisie playoff stage gets underway. With 57 points, AZ Alkmaar finished fifth in the regular season; Heerenveen came in ninth with 43 points, which prepared a high-stakes game.
Betting Tips and Match Insights
This AZ Alkmaar vs Heerenveen prediction today dives into the form, head-to-head records, and critical factors shaping this playoff battle. Both teams have shown resilience, with AZ Alkmaar rebounding from a mid-season slump and Heerenveen snatching a playoff spot against the odds. Recent performances suggest a tight contest, with AZ’s home strength pitted against Heerenveen’s counter-attacking threat. The following sections break down their latest results and historical meetings to guide your betting decisions. Expect a match where tactical discipline and individual brilliance could tip the scales.
AZ Alkmaar Results
AZ Alkmaar entered the playoffs with confidence after a strong finish to the Eredivisie campaign under Maarten Martens. Their unbeaten streak in the final four matches showcased their attacking prowess and defensive solidity. The team’s ability to secure points against top sides like Twente highlights their readiness for this crucial fixture.
| Date | Competition | Matchup | Result | Outcome |
| 18/05/25 | ERE | AZ Alkmaar vs Almere City | 1-1 | D |
| 14/05/25 | ERE | Twente vs AZ Alkmaar | 2-3 | W |
| 11/05/25 | ERE | AZ Alkmaar vs Groningen | 3-0 | W |
| 04/05/25 | ERE | G.A. Eagles vs AZ Alkmaar | 0-3 | W |
| 24/04/25 | ERE | AZ Alkmaar vs NAC Breda | 1-1 | D |
AZ Alkmaar’s late-season form, with three wins and two draws in their last five, underlines their consistency. Their 3-0 victories over Groningen and Go Ahead Eagles demonstrate their ability to dominate weaker sides. The 3-2 win against Twente, a direct rival, shows their clutch performance in high-pressure games. However, draws against Almere City and NAC Breda suggest occasional struggles to convert dominance into wins. This blend of offensive firepower and defensive resilience makes them formidable at home.
Heerenveen Results
Heerenveen’s playoff qualification was a testament to their grit, capped by a stunning 2-0 win over Feyenoord on the final day. Despite an inconsistent season, their ability to secure key victories at home has kept them competitive. Under Robin Veldman, they now face the challenge of translating that form into an away upset.
| Date | Competition | Matchup | Result | Outcome |
| 18/05/25 | ERE | Heerenveen vs Feyenoord | 2-0 | W |
| 14/05/25 | ERE | G.A. Eagles vs Heerenveen | 1-0 | L |
| 10/05/25 | ERE | Waalwijk vs Heerenveen | 3-1 | L |
| 27/04/25 | ERE | Heerenveen vs Nijmegen | 1-0 | W |
| 19/04/25 | ERE | Heerenveen vs Almere City | 2-1 | W |
Heerenveen’s recent results reflect a mixed bag, with three wins and two losses in their last five. The 2-0 triumph over Feyenoord was a statement of intent, showcasing their defensive organization and clinical finishing. However, back-to-back losses to Waalwijk and Go Ahead Eagles exposed vulnerabilities, particularly away from home. Their home wins against Nijmegen and Almere City indicate a reliance on fan support. This inconsistency could hinder them against a well-drilled AZ side.
AZ Alkmaar vs Heerenveen Head-to-Head (Last 5 Matches)
Historical meetings between AZ Alkmaar and Heerenveen provide valuable context for this playoff clash. AZ have generally held the upper hand, particularly at home, but Heerenveen’s recent victory adds intrigue. These encounters often produce goals, reflecting both teams’ attacking intent.
| Date | Competition | Matchup | Result |
| 02/03/25 | ERE | Heerenveen vs AZ Alkmaar | 3-1 |
| 14/09/24 | ERE | AZ Alkmaar vs Heerenveen | 9-1 |
| 28/01/24 | ERE | Heerenveen vs AZ Alkmaar | 2-2 |
| 21/10/23 | ERE | AZ Alkmaar vs Heerenveen | 3-0 |
| 01/04/23 | ERE | AZ Alkmaar vs Heerenveen | 1-1 |
AZ Alkmaar’s 9-1 thrashing of Heerenveen in September 2024 stands out as an anomaly, but their 3-0 win in 2023 reinforces their home dominance. Heerenveen’s 3-1 victory in March 2025 shows they can exploit AZ’s off days. The 2-2 and 1-1 draws indicate closely fought battles when both teams are at their best. Overall, AZ’s home record gives them an edge, but Heerenveen’s recent win suggests they’re capable of an upset.
AZ Alkmaar Possible Starting Lineup
AZ Alkmaar are expected to deploy their preferred 4-4-2 formation, leaning on the creativity of Sven Mijnans and the goal-scoring threat of Mexx Meerdink in the absence of Troy Parrott:
Owusu-Oduro (GK), Kasius (DF), Goes (DF), Penetra (DF), Wolfe (DF), Koopmeiners (MF), Buurmeester (MF), Poku (MF), Mijnans (MF), Van Bommel (FW), Meerdink (FW).
Heerenveen Possible Starting Lineup
Heerenveen are likely to stick with a 4-4-2 setup, relying on young attackers like Milos Lukovic and Jacob Trenskow to spark their counter-attacking style:
Van Der Hart (GK), Braude (DF), Petrov (DF), Hopland (DF), Kohlert (DF), Linday (MF), Brouwers (MF), Smans (MF), Trenskow (MF), Lukovic (FW), Gurbuz (FW).
Injured and Questionable Players
Several players from both AZ Alkmaar and Heerenveen are unavailable or doubtful for this crucial playoff match due to injuries or suspensions. The absence of key figures, such as AZ’s top scorer Troy Parrott and Heerenveen’s goalkeeper Andries Noppert, could significantly impact the game’s dynamics. The table below details the players who are confirmed or likely to miss the match, along with their respective teams and reasons for unavailability.
| Team | Player | Reason |
| AZ Alkmaar | Troy Parrott | Injury (Undisclosed) |
| AZ Alkmaar | Jayden Addai | Injury (Undisclosed) |
| AZ Alkmaar | Jordy Clasie | Injury (Undisclosed) |
| AZ Alkmaar | Kristijan Belic | Injury (Undisclosed) |
| Heerenveen | Andries Noppert | Injury (Undisclosed) |
| Heerenveen | Pawel Bochniewicz | Injury (Undisclosed) |
| Heerenveen | Alireza Jahanbakhsh | Injury (Undisclosed) |
| Heerenveen | Mateja Milovanovic | Injury (Undisclosed) |
Key Factors to Watch
Several elements will shape the outcome of this AZ Alkmaar vs Heerenveen match prediction. Both teams face challenges and opportunities, from injuries to form and tactical setups. Here are the critical aspects to consider:
- AZ’s Injury Woes: Key striker Troy Parrott (14 league goals) remains sidelined, alongside Jayden Addai, Jordy Clasie, and Kristijan Belic, testing AZ’s squad depth;
- Heerenveen’s Goalkeeper Change: Andries Noppert’s injury forces Mickey van der Hart into goal, potentially weakening their last line of defense;
- AZ’s Home Form: Unbeaten in their last four home games, AZ have scored 8 goals in their last three at AFAS Stadion;
- Heerenveen’s Away Struggles: Two consecutive away losses highlight their vulnerability on the road;
- Sven Mijnans’ Influence: AZ’s attacking midfielder has been pivotal, contributing goals and assists in recent wins;
- Heerenveen’s Counter-Attacking Threat: Youngsters Milos Lukovic and Eser Gurbuz can exploit spaces if AZ overcommit;
- Recent Momentum: AZ’s unbeaten run contrasts with Heerenveen’s up-and-down form, giving the hosts a psychological edge;
- Tactical Discipline: AZ’s 4-2-3-1 setup thrives on width, but Heerenveen’s compact midfield could disrupt their rhythm.
Free Tips on AZ Alkmaar vs Heerenveen
For the AZ Alkmaar vs Heerenveen prediction 2025, these free betting tips focus on unique factors derived from team statistics and dynamics. By examining recent performances and head-to-head data, bettors can identify value opportunities. Below are key considerations tailored to this playoff clash:
- Home vs. Away Dynamics: AZ Alkmaar’s strong home record, with only one loss in their last 10 home games, gives them an edge, while Heerenveen struggle away, losing three of their last five on the road.
- Player Form: AZ’s Sven Mijnans, with his playmaking and goal-scoring ability, is in top form, while Heerenveen’s Milos Lukovic could be a threat if given space.
- Pitch and Weather Conditions: The AFAS Stadion’s natural grass pitch, combined with potential May rain, could slow play, favoring AZ’s controlled possession style over Heerenveen’s counter-attacking approach.
- Referee Tendencies: M. Nagtegaal’s balanced officiating, with an average of 3.5 cards per game, suggests a low likelihood of excessive stoppages, benefiting AZ’s rhythm.
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AZ Alkmaar vs Heerenveen Match Prediction 2025
This AZ Alkmaar vs Heerenveen prediction 2025 leans toward a home victory, given AZ’s superior form and home advantage. The AZ Alkmaar vs Heerenveen odds reflect this, with bookmakers favoring AZ due to their unbeaten run and historical dominance at AFAS Stadion. Despite Heerenveen’s spirited 2-0 win over Feyenoord, their away form two losses in a row raises concerns against a side of AZ’s caliber. AZ’s attacking trio of Mexx Meerdink, Ernest Poku, and Ruben van Bommel, supported by Sven Mijnans, should exploit Heerenveen’s makeshift defense, particularly with Mickey van der Hart in goal. Heerenveen’s counter-attacking potential, led by Lukovic and Gurbuz, could yield a goal, but their defensive frailties (conceding 4 goals in their last two away games) suggest they’ll struggle to contain AZ’s relentless pressure. A 2-1 scoreline feels plausible, with AZ’s depth and home crowd tipping the scales. Their xG average of 1.8 in recent home games compared to Heerenveen’s 1.2 away supports this outcome.
Our Prediction: AZ Alkmaar 2-1 Heerenveen
| Prediction Type | Prediction | Odds |
| Match Result | AZ Alkmaar to Win | 1.45 |
| Total Goals | Over 2.5 Goals | 1.53 |
| Both Teams to Score | Yes | 1.69 |
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