Football Result
Alexandre Penetra 66'
Verification of the Result Prediction
Power Comparison in the League
Game Stats
Team Formations
Estimated Goal Scoring Chance
H2H Record before the game
AZ Alkmaar
Draws
Heerenveen
In a dominant display at the AFAS Stadion on May 22, 2025, AZ Alkmaar defeated Heerenveen 4-1 in the Dutch Eredivisie Europa Conference Playoffs Semifinals. AZ Alkmaar's Mexx Meerdink stole the show with a first-half hat-trick, finding the net in the 3rd, 21st, and 45th minutes. Alexandre Penetra added another goal in the 66th minute, sealing a comfortable victory for the home side. Heerenveen's lone goal came from Ion Nicolaescu in the 74th minute.
The game statistics reveal AZ Alkmaar's clinical finishing, converting eight of their thirteen shots on target. While Heerenveen enjoyed more possession (56.9% compared to AZ Alkmaar's 43.1%), they struggled to create meaningful chances, managing only two shots on target from their ten attempts. Both teams committed an equal number of fouls (10), with Heerenveen receiving two yellow cards to AZ Alkmaar's one.
The AI-powered pre-game prediction correctly anticipated an AZ Alkmaar win, aligning with the actual result. The AI model did not expect a balanced game, which proved accurate given AZ Alkmaar's commanding performance. The home team's win probability was predicted at 57.1% before the game, indicating a strong likelihood of victory, which materialized.
AZ Alkmaar's recent form has been strong, with three wins and two draws in their last five matches before this game, showcasing their attacking prowess. Heerenveen's form has been more inconsistent, with two wins and three losses in their previous five games. This game continues AZ Alkmaar's dominance over Heerenveen at home, as was evident in the previous head-to-head games.
Looking ahead, AZ Alkmaar is set to face FC Twente in their next match on May 25th, 2025, at the same venue. FC Twente, however, will be looking for revenge, after losing to AZ Alkmaar on May 14th. Given both teams' current form and the tight contests in recent head-to-head encounters, a closely contested match is anticipated. AZ Alkmaar will aim to maintain their winning momentum, while FC Twente will strive to bounce back from their recent defeats, especially against AZ Alkmaar.
The Dutch Eredivisie match on May 22, 2025, between AZ Alkmaar and Heerenveen at the AFAS Stadion is generating considerable buzz, primarily due to the AI-driven result prediction favoring the home side. According to the algorithms, AZ Alkmaar has a 57.1% chance of winning, while Heerenveen's chances are pegged at a mere 19.2%, with a 23.7% probability of a draw. AZ Alkmaar, boasting a team strength rate of 0.725 compared to Heerenveen's 0.546, are considered the favorites.
Analyzing recent form, AZ Alkmaar has shown good performance. However, their last match ended in a draw. Their key midfielder, youngster Finn Stam, will be instrumental in controlling the tempo. On the other hand, Heerenveen's recent form is inconsistent. Despite their recent win against Feyenoord, they suffered some defeats before that.
Historical head-to-head data also leans towards AZ Alkmaar, remembering their 9-1 victory in September 2024. However, Heerenveen won the last direct confrontation. All eyes will be on whether AI's prediction holds true, or if Heerenveen can defy the odds and secure a victory in Alkmaar. The game promises tactical intrigue and intense competition.