Heerenveen vs AZ Preview Prediction Team News and Lineups

Heerenveen is set to host AZ Alkmaar in a much-anticipated Eredivisie match on Sunday at Abe Lenstra Stadion. This contest marks the 13th round of the league, and both teams come into it with varying expectations and needs.

Match Background

In their recent encounters, Heerenveen has struggled when facing AZ Alkmaar, suffering three heavy defeats with an aggregate score of 16-2 in their last trips to AFAS Stadion. However, the Super Frisians have enjoyed better results at home, not losing significantly to AZ in their last two meetings in Friesland.

• Last two meetings at Abe Lenstra Stadion:
• 2024-25: Heerenveen 3 – 1 AZ
• 2023-24: Heerenveen 2 – 2 AZ

Currently, Heerenveen is on an upward trajectory, aiming to extend their unbeaten streak to three matches. Their recent home form has been promising, amassing nine out of 14 points with just one loss in six home games.

Heerenveen’s Recent Form

Since suffering a 2-1 loss to FC Twente, Heerenveen has rebounded well. They have accrued eight points in their last four matches, entering this fixture with confidence and the desire to maintain their unbeaten run at home.

AZ Alkmaar’s Challenges

In contrast, AZ Alkmaar faces pressure following a disappointing 5-1 defeat to PSV Eindhoven. This loss ended their four-match winning streak in the league, marking their second loss of the season.

• AZ’s away record this season:
• 4 Wins
• 1 Draw
• 1 Loss

Despite their setback, AZ will aim to close the four-point gap on second-placed Feyenoord, especially after the latter’s recent struggles. However, AZ will have to confront several injury issues affecting key players as they travel to Heerenveen.

Team News

Heerenveen’s Levi Smans is nearing a comeback from a knee injury, while Pawel Bochniewicz remains sidelined. Dylan Vente and Jacob Trenskow have been standout performers, contributing significantly to the team’s goal tally.

On the AZ side, multiple players including Jordy Clasie and Dave Kwakman will miss the match due to injuries. Center-back Wouter Goes will also be unavailable due to suspension after accruing yellow cards.

Predicted Lineups

Heerenveen’s Likely Starting XI

• Klaverboer
• Braude
• Kersten
• Willemsen
• Zagaritis
• Van Overeem
• Brouwers
• Trenskow
• Vente
• Rivera
• Sejk

AZ Alkmaar’s Likely Starting XI

• Zoet
• Dijkstra
• Dekker
• Penetra
• De Wit
• Smit
• Boogaard
• Patati
• Mijnans
• Jensen
• Parrott

Match Prediction

With Heerenveen scoring 12 goals and conceding 11 in their last six home matches, this showdown promises to be a high-scoring affair. A draw seems probable as both teams are likely to produce chances but may lack the decisive touch to secure a win.